West Ham United youngster Veron Parkes has rejected the chance to sign a professional contract at the London Stadium, according to reports.
The Hammers have high hopes for the 18-year-old and has been in scintillating form for the U18s during the current campaign.
Parkes made the move from south to East London in December 2017 from Crystal Palace at the age of 16 and scored his first goal during a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa in 2018.
According to Football Insider, Parkes has turned down the chance to pen a new deal in search of a quicker pathway to first-team football.
The report adds this has alerted several clubs. Celtic, who have just been crowned the champions of Scotland, are one them. Alongside the Hoops, the Ligue 1 outfit Monaco, MLS side New York Red Bulls and Dutch duo Fortuna Sittard and Heerenveen have all taken notice and are closely monitoring his progress.
Does Veron Parkes have a bright future in the game?
Yes
No
Parkes has a splendid goalscoring record for the young Hammers, with 11 goals from 14 appearances this season, taking his total to 25 and providing eight assists in 48 outings. An impressive record for a young player, which should see him get the opportunity he deserves further down the road.
It would be a great shame to see him slip through our fingers. Jeremy Ngakia has been given the opportunity to shine so there is no reason why Parkes will not receive the same treatment.
Even while at Everton, manager David Moyes was always keen to have a blend of youth and experience in his squad, and Parkes could be a part of that.
