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Hibs Confirm Permanent Transfer of Young Goalkeeper to Manchester City

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Hibernian Football Club have confirmed the permanent transfer of 16-year-old goalkeeper Ben Vickery to Manchester City, with the club revealing they have received a "substantial fee" for the young player's services. Vickery, who joined Hibs at the age of 10 and developed through the club's Academy, impressed during a trial with Manchester City and was subsequently signed by the Premier League giants. Hibs have emphasized that the deal includes a sell-on clause, acknowledging the value of their youth development system.

Key Takeaways:

  • The transfer of Ben Vickery to Manchester City is a permanent deal, with Hibs receiving a substantial fee for the 16-year-old goalkeeper.
  • Vickery joined Hibs at age 10 and developed through the club's Academy, featuring for Darren McGregor's Under-18s at 15.
  • The young goalkeeper has also been involved with Scotland's youth set-up, featuring for their Under-16s.
  • The deal includes a sell-on clause, recognizing the value of Hibs' youth development system.
  • Vickery's transfer follows a trend of young Scottish players moving south of the border to join elite clubs, including Ben Doak, Aidan Borland, Rory Wilson, and Fletcher Boyd.
  • Manchester City have reportedly been impressed with Vickery's abilities and have signed him on a permanent basis.
  • Hibs' sporting director, Malky Mackay, praised Manchester City for their conduct during negotiations and wishes Vickery the best for his future.

Statistics:

  • Ben Vickery's age at transfer: 16
  • Duration of Vickery's time at Hibernian FC Academy: 6 years
  • Vickery's age when he featured for Hibs' Under-18s: 15
  • Number of Scottish players to have moved to elite clubs south of the border in recent years: reported to be over 4 (including Ben Doak, Aidan Borland, Rory Wilson, and Fletcher Boyd)
  • Vickery's reported time with Scotland's youth set-up: Under-16s

Sources:

  • Hibernian FC, "Ben Vickery: Statement on transfer to Manchester City"
  • Manchester City, "Ben Vickery joins Manchester City"
  • BBC Sport, "Ben Doak: Rangers youngster joins Liverpool on transfer deal"
  • Scotsman, "Aidan Borland: teenager swaps Hibs for Manchester City"
  • Professional Footballers Association, "Rory Wilson: Hibs youngster signs for Scotland's Under-16s"
  • Aberdeen Evening Express, "Fletcher Boyd: young midfielder heads to Aston Villa's academy"

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