The amateur contract will see Kai develop under Burnely’s scholarship program over the next two years in the Burnley Football Academy.

Kai was an impressive performer for the Wolves in Under 15s and Under 16s and after being spotted was invited to attend trials with Burnley. His trial form caught the eye of the Burnley staff.

Wollongong Wolves coach Jacob Timpano wasn’t surprised with the offer.  

"Kai is a big, tall, strong, mobile goalkeeper, which are the ideal physical attributes to be successful. Better still, he is a great kid, with a fantastic attitude," he said.

"We identified Kai’s potential very early and had him training with our senior squads to further his development. He was doing that at 15 years of age and handled himself more than adequately.

"Burnely’s gain is obviously our loss, but it’s all about progression and opportunity for our kids. It’s fantastic for Kai and again shows just what an amazing junior nursery we have right here in our backyard."

Wolves goalkeeper coach John Krajnovic mentored and tutored the young keeper over the past four years.

Krajnovic said Kai showed much promise from the outset.

"Kai is the ideal all round package," he said.

"He has the athleticism and more importantly he has the work ethic. He is a very fast learner and has the perfect temperament for a keeper.

"There was never any doubt in my mind he was more than talented enough to make it as a professional. Talent though is not enough. You have to have the desire, the application and the hunger and he has all those in abundance. Kai will make his mark."