Middlesbrough complete signing of highly-rated teenage defender

Middlesbrough have completed a transfer for Kenyan fullback George Gitau on a scholarship deal.

The under-16 right-back has previously had stints at Crystal Palace, Brighton and Arsenal but has decided to continue his football education at Middlesbrough.

Gitau is highly rated within the youth ranks and is seen as one for the future. The fullback is quick, athletic, and comfortable on the ball, which are the hallmarks of a modern fullback.

Boro, according to the statement, revealed that he impressed after a trial and would join the club with other scholarship hopefuls in the summer. Boro have also added five young players to their scholarship recruitment.

The club revealed that the players are currently part of the U-15 team and have impressed during this period. The five players include Ash McCarthy, Max Howells, Sonny Finch, George McCormick and Luke Woolston.

Boro will be hopeful that these set of talents would be the future and graduate into the first team.

Manager Jonathan Woodgate has shown great trust in youth this season, giving debuts to several academy players.

Hayden Coulson, Djed Spence and Aynsley Pears are good examples of academy players that have enjoyed playing time under Woodgate.