West Ham confirm departure of academy forward Sonny Perkins

West Ham have voiced their disappointment after academy forward Sonny Perkins chose not to sign a professional contract at the London Stadium.

18-year-old Perkins netted ten goals in 20 Premier League 2 games last season to go along with four in four Under-18 Premier League outings - form which saw him rewarded with three senior appearances across the Premier League and Europa League.

Perkins had been on a scholarship deal but West Ham had hoped to tie him down to professional terms, only to see the teenager reject their offer and walk away from the club for free - a decision West Ham claim was encouraged by another team.

"West Ham United can confirm 18-year-old Sonny Perkins has left the Club," a statement read. Perkins, who joined the West Ham United Academy at Under-14 level, rejected the Club's offers of a professional contract.

"The Club is now entitled to receive compensation from any club Perkins decides to join.


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"West Ham United invests millions of pounds annually into its world-renowned Academy of Football – and naturally the Club is extremely disappointed that Sonny has chosen not to continue his development with the Hammers.

"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."


Source : 90min