Motherwell sell teenage midfielder Lennon Miller to Udinese in club record deal

Udinese have completed the signing of teenage midfielder Lennon Miller from Motherwell in a deal worth £4.5m.

The fee is a club record for the Steelmen. The 18-year-old, who came through Motherwell’s youth system, is considered as one of Scottish football’s most talented players.

Miller has made 76 appearances for Motherwell since making his debut just days after his 16th birthday and has already played twice for Scotland.

He has long been linked with a move on from Motherwell and now becomes the latest in a growing group of Scots playing in Italy’s top flight. Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour were part of Napoli’s Scudetto-winning side last season, while Che Adams, Josh Doig and Lewis Ferguson all play in the league.

Udinese teased Miller’s signing on social media with a picture of the Loch Ness Monster before confirming his move on a five-year contract.

Both clubs then confirmed the deal, with Motherwell sharing a video with the player saying goodbye to the club where he has made his name.

“Motherwell is all I’ve ever known,” Miller said in a statement announcing the move.

“It’s been my home since I was a young boy, and I’ve achieved my dream of playing in the first-team, playing in the big stadiums and wearing the armband.

“My thanks goes to all the supporters for taking me in. The support up and down the country every week has been exceptional. For all the coaches I’ve worked under and who have helped me improve as a player and as a man, thank you. I simply wouldn’t be here without their guidance and support.

“To all the players who I’ve played alongside with, and for all the kind words they’ve said about me, thank you. My teammates have helped me through everything and allowed me to play with freedom.

“I want to also express my appreciation to all the staff behind the scenes at the club. Some are still there, some have moved on, but they all work so hard to keep the place going. You may not see first-hand the hard work and sacrifices they make, but having been in the building all these years, I can’t thank them enough for everything they do.

“This is a new chapter in my life, and I move on filled with excitement. I may not be at Fir Park to cheer on the boys, but I’ll be watching and following from afar. The club has a big place in my heart, and I will always be grateful. I wish all the lads the best for the rest of the season.”