Manchester City have secured the capture of Crewe Alexandra midfielder Dan Smith for an initial figure of £300,000.
The 16-year-old is regarded as one of the best young talents in the country, and has been openly tracked by City for more than a year.
Blues boss Roberto Mancini had recently sent scouts to watch Smith in action for Crewe's Under-18 side, and was reportedly impressed with the feedback.
City face Chelsea in the Premier League on Wednesday.