TEENAGER Ajani Burchall has joined Aston Villa following his departure from Cherries.

Cherries say they have received a "substantial undisclosed compensation fee" for the 16-year-old.

Burchall shot into the headlines in December of last year, named as a surprise substitute for Cherries' first team, having previously been playing under-18s football.

The winger went on to make his debut under former boss Jason Tindall, coming on for the final three minutes of the 5-0 win over Huddersfield Town in the Championship.

Bermuda-born Burchall has now joined Premier League Villa, after Arsenal had also been linked with a move for him earlier this year.

By featuring against Huddersfield, former Bournemouth Collegiate School pupil Burchall became the third youngest player in the club's history to play for the first team, behind Jimmy White and Jayden Stockley.

Burchall kept his spot in the matchday squad for the following weekend's trip to Luton Town, but that proved to be his final involvement with the senior side.

Taking to Instagram after confirming his departure from Cherries in May, Burchall wrote: "I have decided to take a different step in my pathway to achieve my dream.

"I can not express my gratitude to the overwhelming support the club gave me throughout the course of my journey with AFC Bournemouth.

"Not a day will pass without remembrance to those who have helped me achieve my career so far.

"I thank all my teammates and staff who have helped me be the player I am today. Looking forward to the hard work to start next season!! Thank you."