Last Updated: Thu, 15 Nov 2012 17:09
Fulham have beaten Manchester United and Celtic to the signature of one of Irish football's brightest prospects - Noe Baba.
The 16-year-old defender from County Mayo boasts Cameroonian roots and is currently Ireland's most sought-after youngster after a rapid rise through the international ranks.
Baba became the first African-born player to captain Ireland when he led out the U17s and was subsequently called up to the U19 squad where he featured against Luxembourg in October.
And, despite Manchester United Academy Director Brian McClair paying him a visit earlier this year and coming close to joining the SPL champions back in August, the teenager has reportedly turned both clubs down to agree to join the Cottagers.
Castlebar Celtic spokesperson Noel Coll told TheScore that, while he believes it is Baba's intention to join Fulham, an agreement has not yet been confirmed to the club.
"He's a lovely lad, he comes from a good family," Coll said. "I couldn't speak highly enough of him. He's a bright lad and would be going to university if it wasn't for football.
"As far as we are concerned, nothing has been agreed yet. There is no question of his ability so it's not about trials. It's about working out a deal that suits both parties and his father will have the final say."
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