London24.com reports that Fulham have signed Stefan Velkov from Slavia Sofia

Fulham sign Stefan Velkov
Fulham sign Stefan Velkov

The highly rated 17-year-old centre back has been reportedly a long-term target for Manchester United, however it appears that Felix Magath has beaten them to his signature.

Bulgarian Velkov first had had a trial at Old Trafford back in December and the Red Devils had apparent  first refusal on the defender, an option which they didn't take up.

The reports which have emanated from Bulgaria stated that the 17 year old has today agreed a deal with the London club.

Rumours have been circulating that Magath has been chasing the defender for some time and pushing hard for a deal with the players' representatives, a deal has been close for sometime until external influences tried to derail the deal.

The influences has inferred that the defender had reported 'health issues' which held up a deal, although those concerns were allayed and Fulham have agreed a five year deal reported to be worth £515,000 (650,000 Euros).

The deal has yet to be confirmed from either sides website yet.