Preston North End have completed a deal to sign Liam Grimshaw from Manchester United for an undisclosed fee.
The 20-year old, who can play either in defence or midfield, has agreed a two and a half year deal, keeping him at Deepdale until at least the summer of 2018.
Following an extensive medical over a number of days, Grimshaw put pen to paper, however, he will immediately undergo a minor operation which will rule him out of action for the first few weeks of his time with the Club.
The Burnley-born player, who came through the ranks at Old Trafford, spent the first half of the season on loan in the SPL with Motherwell, but was recalled to Manchester in order to complete his move, following in the footsteps of Ben Pearson, who also moved from the Red Devils last week.
Speaking about his latest acquisition manager Simon Grayson said: “We know a lot about Liam. He is another player who is not coming in cold. He is coming in from Manchester United, but he has had three or four months playing up in the SPL with Motherwell and has done very well.
“He is a very versatile player. He can play at right back, he can play on the right side of a three and he can play in midfield. He likes a tackle, has a lot of energy about him and has a good pedigree, because of where he is coming from.”
“He is another young, hungry player that we seem to be developing and attracting. We have some good competition in his area of the pitch and we have some experienced players who will help him on the way.
“Ben [Pearson] did well the other night. He looked very assured and grew into the game and I am sure that when Liam gets his chance he will be the same. We are always looking to improve and take the squad further forward and Liam adds another body to that squad over that next few years.”
The player was also delighted at making the move and was looking forward to the next stage of his career. The new PNE No.31 added: “I have been at Manchester United a long time, but I am ready to move on and make a career for myself.
“I have really enjoyed my time at Motherwell and I would like to thank them for giving me the opportunity to play every week. It is a great club and I really enjoyed it there. The loan move has really benefitted me.
“This is a chance to get my career going. It is great to be back home in Lancashire and I am looking to get settled and start to kick on with my career.”