This has probably been asked a number of times, I recieved the scholly email saying I was in the lead. 

"Family and I very happy to play basket in USA with you coach. Ok me sign now?"  (obviously an international player)

So I didn't put another dime into the player, about 10 cyles later he signed with the Sim.  I never recieved any correspondance from the player in ther interim.  I was under the impression once you are leading, its a done deal.

I've read some other posts here recently that mentioned how the sims have started putting money into recruits right up to the signing deadline.

I wouldn't trust the sneaky bastages, myself.

Paul - is that a scholly email or a regular one?

I'm sorry the Scholly email came at 2:00am said "Not ready to make a decision yet", I put a few more bucks into him and a regular email came at 11:00am with "Family and I very happy to play basket in USA with you coach. Ok me sign now?" 

That wasn't a scholly email; I don't think you were ever ahead.