West Ham United have announced the departure of Sonny Perkins - adding that they are ‘disappointed’ with the player’s representatives who they believe to be in contact with another club. The fiery statement comes amid interest from Leeds United, who are one of several Premier League sides looking to sign the striker.
Perkins joined the Hammers at under-14 level and worked his way through the age groups in London, but has since rejected the offer of a professional contract. The 18-year-old featured just once in the Premier League last season, coming on against the Whites in January.
And now the teenager has left the club in controversial circumstances, with the east London club announcing the departure alongside a strongly worded statements.
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They said: “The Club is disappointed with Perkins' representatives and strongly believe he was approached to sign for another club which led to him asking to be released from his scholarship at West Ham United.
“West Ham United take this matter very seriously – we believe the rules and structures in place at the Football Association and Premier League should be upheld at all times. The Club will be making no further comment.”
Leeds remain interested in the promising teenager, who was strongly linked with a move to Elland Road earlier in the summer, but reports suggest it could be Tottenham leading the race and encouraging Perkins to push for a move away.
West Ham’s obvious anger at the situation will no doubt be directed towards the club who sign the forward, with compensation due to be paid for English players under 24-years-old who move on a free deal.
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