Wolverhampton Wanderers sign Rochdale teen Luke Matheson

Wolverhampton Wanderers have beaten off a host of Premier League rivals to complete the signing of young Rochdale prospect Luke Matheson.

The 17-year-old has been courted by a number of top sides after impressing with an equalising goal for his side at Manchester United in the EFL Cup in October.

Welcome to Wolves, Luke Matheson!

🐺✍ pic.twitter.com/7AuDyAT1LK

— Wolves (@Wolves) January 31, 2020

Matheson became Rochdale's youngest ever player when he made his debut in 2017 aged just 15 and has since gone on to make 24 appearances for the League One side.

"Our recruitment team have watched Luke since he made his debut at 15," said Wolves sporting director Kevin Thelwell. "He's still only 17 and has made a lot of appearances for Rochdale in League One, which is a very good standard, and had strong games in the cups, particularly this season against Manchester United and Newcastle United.

"The system we play, it's set up for him. He plays at right-back for Rochdale at the moment, but he's a right-wing back in our eyes because of his energy and ability to continually sprint and recover. At 17, for a boy to have so much experience, be English and have such a strong mentality is fantastic and we think he's everything we're about."

Matheson added: "It's amazing to be part of the pack. It feels incredible to have such a prestigious badge on the front of my shirt. Wolves is such a great club, giving constant opportunities in and around the first-team for players my age. That was something that attracted me and I'm looking forward to having that opportunity."

As part of the deal, Matheson will return to Rochdale for the remainder of the campaign.