Too easy tbh.
With the exception of wonderkids, why not filter the attributes you'd associate with the type of player you want?
I agree that finding wonderkids should maybe be a little easier, i heard about Rooney several years before he broke through, same with John Terry and Joe Cole. Maybe SI could have a rare news item from your top scout along the lines of:
"I have heard good reports from some sources that <player x> has the potential to become very talented and it might be worth keeping a close eye on his development"
Or something like that. I have the feeling something like this is already in the game. But im not sure.