Manchester United have reached an agreement to sign Evie Rabjohn from Aston Villa, with a deal set to be confirmed once the player is back from England U19 duty.
The 17-year-old defender is very highly rated, and had several clubs keeping tabs on her recently. But the Mancunian side have made the approach and have seemingly struck an agreement to sign the player.
Evie Rabjohn to sign for Manchester United
Rabjohn made her first start for Villa at the end of March, in the club’s 5-0 win over Leicester City. The Birmingham-based side will not receive compensation for the transfer since the player will not turn 18 until April 28.
In the women’s game, clubs don’t have to pay transfer fees if the player is under 18, which is unlike the men’s game where there is a detailed system of compensation. This has been protested by several Women’s Super League clubs, but the rule remains unchanged.
Evie Rabjohn primarily functions as a central defender, but can also play in midfield if needed. She worked with current Manchester United women’s team manager Marc Skinner in the past at Birmingham City’s academy. And that played an important part in the player opting to make the move.
Villa reportedly offered her a hefty first professional contract to try and change her mind. But, they are disappointed to ultimately let her leave since they have little control over her final decision.