Wittrup

I have recently aquired FM08 and have begun yet another game as mighty Bath City.

I have thus far (still in pre-season) encountered two oddities that I hope someone can explain:

1. Youth contract.

I find this talented 15-year old defender on a free contract. I give him a trial and being happy with him, I offer him a Youth contract.

I am now informed that the transfer will be delayed until the next Transfer window opens on 29.06.2008 (current date is 25.07.2007).

Now I thought that I could sign Free Transfers all season, and I would think that there were at least two available Transfer Windows before the date set by the game.

I tried offering other youth trialists contracts and all of them say that it will take effect immediately.

So why the delay on my 15-year old??

I thought it might be his age, but he will only be 16½ approx. on the day the transfer goes through, so that can't be it.

2. Scout job offer

I have a "brilliant" scout in my employ who has Judging Ability 2 & Judging Potential 1. Yet so far Fulham and Sheffield United have offered him a job. Ofcourse this is great for me as I get £12.000 if he signs, and I can get a better scout.

But why on Earth would a Premiership and a Championship club be wanting a scout with such low scores?? ...am I missing any other stat that is essential to a scout?