Tate Ferdinand signs professional contract with Brighton & Hove Albion

Seventeen‑year‑old defender Tate Ferdinand, the son of former England captain Rio Ferdinand, has signed a professional contract with Brighton & Hove Albion. He will join the club’s U21 squad after two seasons with the U18 side, where he made 24 appearances and scored two goals, helping the team reach the Sussex Transport Senior Cup final. Tate follows his older brother Lorenz, who also signed a deal with Brighton earlier this year. Former Manchester United teammates Edwin van der Sar and Darren Fletcher posted congratulatory messages on social media, praising the youngster’s progress.