Brighton and Hove Albion have signed wing prospect Joe Ward on a development contract from Chelmsford City for an undisclosed fee.
The 19-year-old wide player joins from the Conference South club and will link up with Simon Rusk’s under-21 squad for pre-season training at the end of June.
Ward struck ten goals in 44 appearances for Chelmsford last season, and his form earned him a two-match trial with Albion’s under-21.
Having impressed during his time on trial, Albion subsequently agreed terms with Chelmsford and the player; he signed at the Amex yesterday afternoon following a medical.