This is probably taking youth scouting to an altogether different level! Catching them young? Yeah, catch kids when they are still in their nappies!
VVV Venlo, a Dutch professional football outfit, have signed 18 month old toddler Baerke van der Meij. Van der Meij came to VVV Venlo’s attention after his father posted a video on YouTube showing his son’s skills with the football.
Young Van der Meij accurately hit three balls into a box- fairly remarkable skill for a year old kid. ( see Youtube video below)
VVV have given the toddler a ten year contract. Van der Meij’s grandfather, coincidentally, played football for VVV Venlo.
Publicity stunt it might very well be, but one cannot help but wonder whether Arsene Wenger plans to raid VVV Venlo for this toddler’s services?
( Credits of this VVV Venlo Baerke van der Meij 2011 video with uploaders @ Youtube)