West Ham have confirmed the signing of former Town academy striker Sam Ford, following his release by the Blues.
As reported last week, the 17-year-old, who wasn’t offered terms by Town with his scholarship up this summer, impressed the Hammers during recent trial spells when he scored for both their U18s and U21s.
Former Felixstowe Academy pupil Ford has signed a contract until June 2017 with an option for the deal to be extended.
Ford told the Hammers’ official website: "I’m delighted to have signed for West Ham. It’s a huge club and a big step up.
"West Ham is a massive club. It is a very exciting time with the new stadium, everyone is talking about West Ham. It is definitely something to look forward to and hopefully I’ll be involved playing there one day.
"It’s been a dream of mine to be a professional footballer for as long as I can remember so hopefully I can keep on improving, keep working hard and we’ll see where that gets me.”
Town offered professional contracts to six youngsters, James Blanchfield, George Fowler, Monty Patterson, Chris Smith, Shane McLoughlin and Jacob Marsden.
Meanwhile, we understand it's now looking unlikely that Blues right-back or midfielder Kyle Hammond will join Needham Market on loan.
As reported yesterday, the Ryman League Premier Division side are keen to sign the 20-year-old on a short-term basis, however, Hammond is understood to have other clubs in higher divisions interested in signing him.