I realize this is an old thread, but was wondering if there are any new thoughts on the youth academy players. I just got my first two ever.

The free, two star player doesn't seem worth cutting one of my current players in order to sign and sell.

The 18T player is low end 4 star, but I can buy 18 year olds nine quality levels higher on transfer market. The main issue seems to be "spend tokens for player of unknown value and only one position vs. spend cash for player of known value, higher quality, and positions of my choice". Might be worth it once the transfer market gets more competitive at higher levels, but for now there is too much transfer market value to make youth academy players worthwhile.

Any insight from those who have done this before? Some confirmation would be reassuring before I pass on this opportunity. Thanks.