Dujuan 'Whisper' Richards has signed a pre-contract deal with Chelsea, according to the founder of Phoenix Football Academy in Jamaica. The exciting striker had undergone a two-week trial with Newcastle United last month, but looks to have agreed a switch to the Blues.
The 17-year-old spent a fortnight in the North East, and was pictured in attendance at St James' Park as Eddie Howe's side drew with West Ham. Richards was also in the stands at Whitley Park for Newcastle under-21s draw with their Leeds United counterparts on February 13.
The striker later outlined his confidence that an offer from the Magpies would be forthcoming in an exclusive interview with ChronicleLive.
READ MORE: Meet the exciting striker 'expecting' to be Newcastle's next signing and holds Alan Shearer ambition
Speaking following the heavy home defeat to West Brom on Monday, Newcastle U21s boss Ben Dawson confirmed he was awaiting a decision from the club. Days later, it appears Chelsea have stolen a march and pipped the Magpies to the starlet.
Craig Butler, who founded the Phoenix All Stars Academy, appeared to confirm the deal on Saturday night, writing: "History has been made. The Phoenix all stars football academy is proud to announce that Dujuan "whisper" Richards, who has been with us since 12 years old, has put pen to paper and signed his pre-contract with Chelsea FC in England and will be plying his trade in the Premier League.
He added: "We thank all the clubs who have shown interest and took the time to look at our players and we look to the future for more top talents from our academy gracing the pitches in Belgium, Holland, Germany, England and Spain.
"Thank you to the staff at Chelsea, especially Joe Shields for believing me two years ago when I told him that I was building the top talent, Dujuan "Whisper" Richards."
Richards is currently on international duty, having earned a senior call-up for the friendly series against Trinidad and Tobago. Chronicle Live has contacted Richards' agent for comment.
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