Ligue 1 Conforama runners-up AS Monaco have announced the signature of Olympique Lyonnais youth academy prodigy Willem Geubbels, 16, on a €20m transfer.
After securing the services of 21-year-old former Troyes forward Samuel Grandsir, AS Monaco have made another move to bolster their attack by signing OL prodigy Willem Geubbels for the weighty price of €20m.
Future star
Geubbels, who will turn 17 on 16 August, is a product of the OL youth academy. The rangy and mercurial striker’s extensive experience for France at all youth levels (21 caps, 12 goals) – as well as his becoming the first player born in the 21st century to play in Ligue 1 Conforama when he debuted as a 16-year0old in 2017-18 – was doubtless part of the appeal for Monaco.
“Willem Geubbels’ arrival is part and parcel of our aim to bring through the best European talents,” declared Vadim Vasilyev, AS Monaco Vice-President and CEO. “Willem has already shown plenty of qualities and his great potential. With patience and a lot of hard work, we are convinced he will make it to the top.”
‘Determined’
Geubbels’ path from the OL youth academy to the principality club has been travelled before – five years ago, Anthony Martial made the move for €5m before moving to Manchester United for €36m two years later – and could prove as beneficial for both the club and the very upbeat Geubbels.
“I’m very happy to be signing for AS Monaco. This is a club with a great history that plays in the Champions League and challenges for the Ligue 1 Conforama title every year,” said the uber-talented youngster looking to build on the two Ligue 1 Conforama appearances he made for OL in season 2017-18. “The club’s project is ambitious and built on developing young talent. I can’t wait to meet my new teammates and start learning from them. I’m ready and determined to help the team achieve great things.”
Get into the swing
Geubbels will have a full pre-season with the principality club, including five friendlies against a range of European opponents, before Monaco play their first competitive match of the season – the Trophée des Champions against Paris Saint-Germain in Shenzhen, China on Saturday, 4 August.
>> TRANSFERS: All the summer moves