Harry Ransom has signed with Championship club Millwall from Eastbourne Borough for an undisclosed fee.
The 19-year-old centre-back will stay with Boro until the end of the season before the next transfer window opens, but will train with his new club during the week.
A number of clubs have been tracking the progress of Ransom with five Football League sides present at Hungerford last weekend.
As reported earlier in the week, Millwall have now won the race to sign the promising youngster.
“It suits all parties,” explained Borough chairman John Bonar. “Harry will train at Millwall during the week, but will be back at the Lane for Borough’s Thursday night training sessions and available for selection by Mark McGhee for the Saturday. I know that some media reports suggested that this weekend, against Bath City, would be his last game, but we can now clarify the agreement.
“We are delighted for Harry, who came through our youth ranks and was frankly always destined for a level of football above National South. This represents very good business for all parties – but just as importantly, we are doing the right thing for Harry Ransom in human terms and we will be proud to follow his future progress in the game. I know that all supporters will join me in wishing Harry well.”
Assistant manager Danny Bloor added: “Harry is an absolute role model for any youngster. He looks after himself well, conducts himself immaculately, and works really hard at his game. He is not yet the finished article, but he has always been keen to take advice, and eager to learn from both the staff and the senior players around him.”
“We were quick to sign Harry on a pro contract on his eighteenth birthday – eighteen months ago, while he was still an Academy player, because the potential was very clear. He is a smashing lad, with a lovely family who support him all the way. I’m sure he will now finish his Borough phase of his career in style. We will certainly miss him!”
