Ramsgate defender Louie Procopi, 17, lands eight-week trial with Premier League Brentford

Young Ramsgate defender Louie Procopi is going on trial with Premier League club Brentford.

Procopi, 17, has made a big impression since joining the Rams from Thanet rivals Margate this summer.

He’s been scouted by the Bees and will have plenty of time to make his mark, according to Rams boss Ben Smith.

“He’s going to Brentford on an eight-week trial,” said Smith.

“It just shows what can be done.

“We’ve given him exposure, he’s been training with some really experienced players and he’s been like a sponge.

“We’ve got players here with Football League experience who had conversations with their former agents, which is how he came to Brentford’s attention.

“They said they were looking for young centre-backs and they passed the name forward.

“Brentford then came and watched him and obviously we play out from the back, he’s a good size, quick - pretty much everything they’ve been looking for.

“The fact he comes with good recommendations as well, it’s a no-brainer for them to have a look at him.”

Ramsgate won’t be entitled to a fee should Brentford’s interest come to anything, with Procopi at Southwood on non-contract terms.

That doesn’t worry the club, though, who are looking firmly at the bigger picture.

“You can’t have under-18s on contract but it’s not about the money,” said Smith.

“The club couldn’t care less about the money.

“It’s about the player and inspiring others - that’s what this is all about - and I think he’s got a good chance there.”

Meanwhile, Ramsgate have boosted their forward options by signing Javaun Splatt from Whitehawk.

The striker had a brief spell at Rams a year ago, rejoining Whitehawk before making a competitive appearance.

He’s back at Southwood and ready to make an impression.

“I’ve been looking