Tottenham and West Ham monitor Walsall teenage starlet Mitch Candlin as forward signs first professional contract
Candlin become the third youngest player to make his League One debut last season and his progress has been closely monitored by a host of Premier League clubs
TOTTENHAM and West Ham are monitoring Walsall teenager Mitch Candlin.
SunSport understands the 17-year-old forward who made his first team bow in April has already caught the eye of the Premier League big boys.
The Saddlers academy graduate has enjoyed a rapid rise through the Bescot Stadium ranks to become a regular in Jon Whitney’s first team plans.
Candlin signed his first professional contract in August after six appearances and boss Whitney is excited about his potential.
He said: He’s got great potential and he reflects our core values, so we have rewarded him.”
Candlin’s breakthrough has also been rewarded at international level as he was called up to train with England Under-18’s before their games against South Africa and Brazil.
Spurs and West Ham have detailed scouting reports on the six-foot striker who is a natural goalscorer and posesses the all round game to have a hugely successful career.
Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has forged a reputation for giving young players a chance instead just making big money signings.
Harry Kane, Harry Winks, Kyle Walker-Peters and Josh Onomah have all made the breakthrough during the Argentine’s time at White Hart Lane.
The Hammers also boast a history of promoting young talent with the likes of Mark Noble, Reece Oxford, Declan Rice.