Blackpool are poised to win the race for Morecambe hotshot Billy Whaite, after the forward has been subject to a plethora of EFL interest this summer.
The centre-forward has been in rich demand since Morecambe’s relegation from League Two last season, and is yet to see his season begin after a summer of financial uncertainty at the Mazuma Stadium.
Now, according to Pete O’Rourke, the 17-year-old is set to sign a deal at Bloomfield Road to continue his career progression with the League One side.
He will be joining as a free signing, having recently served his notice to leave the club after playing last month in pre-season.
Blackpool to Sign Billy Whaite
A star throughout Morecambe’s youth ranks, the forward was a regular feature last month during the Shrimps’ discontinued pre-season campaign.
Scoring in the club’s 1-1 draw against Marine AFC, marking three goals in four pre-season outings, several EFL suitors have lined up for the striker.
Previously, journalist Alan Nixon had reported that the likes of Wigan Athletic, Hull City, and Wigan Athletic were interested in the striker’s services
Making the short switch to fellow Lancashire outfit Blackpool, Whaite is likely to be viewed as a project signing rather than one for the first team.
Also, Whaite has already made his professional debut, appearing off the bench last season during the club’s 3-1 loss at home to Salford City in April.
At 17, it can be expected that the forward will make the step up to the Seasider’s academy set-up to nurture his potential into the first team over the years.
What Next for Morecambe?
Losing their star prospect after clubs from higher up have seen an opportunity through the Shrimps’ situation, this news comes amid a rare breath of fresh air for fans.
Announcing this morning that their transfer embargo has been lifted after Panjab Warriors completed their acquisition of the club, Morecambe’s National League campaign is set to begin this Saturday against Altrincham.
Additionally, this is likely to be followed up with a quick influx of players, with transfer restrictions now lifted and the club free to build their playing squad under new manager, Ashvir Singh Johal.
Amid this quick transfer market turnover, the loss of their teenage prospect will hurt the club, after the 17-year-old showed mountains of promise in their brief pre-season.
However, Morecambe fans will remain positive after their long-awaited takeover deal has finally crossed the line.
