LYON, (AP):

Up-and-coming striker Maxwel Cornet has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal with French league leader Lyon.

The 18-year-old Cornet, who had reportedly triggered the interest of Premier League clubs Stoke and Crystal Palace, helped Metz to the French second-division title last season.

Lyon said the deal is worth €200,000 (US$230,000), plus a percentage of any future transfer fees.

Cornet, who was born in the Ivory Coast but is part of France's U19 squad, had informed Metz officials during the summer that he would not renew his contract, which was due to expire at the end of June.