Town have confirmed that Canadian international Jaime Peters has committed his future to the Blues. The 17-year-old is at the club this weekend with his agent and will officially join Town on his 18th birthday on May 4th.
TWTD was first to report that the Canadian starlet was on trial with the Blues in August. Peters played two pre-season games for Town, an U18 match against Liverpool and a reserve friendly at Needham Market.
Town boss Joe Royle says he was convinced by Peters in these two matches: "Even though we have seen relatively little of Jaime in action, what was immediately apparent was his sheer quality.
"As a player he has exceptional pace, he understands the game and anyone playing full international football at 17 must have something special."
After his spell at Town, Peters had trials at Millwall, Derby, Manchester United and Chelsea.
Dennis Wise's club seemed convinced the 5ft 6in midfielder would join international colleagues Josh Simpson and Adrian Serioux at the Den but in the end Town's record of bringing youngsters through won the day.
Peters' agent Barry MacLean said that Portman Road was considered the best place for the winger to develop: "We are very excited about the prospect of Jaime playing for Ipswich Town Football Club.
"We have been very impressed with the facilities, the quality of people and the family atmosphere of the club. We really believe that this is the best decision for Jaime's growth in English football."
Visa rules mean that the five-time Canadian international is not able to join the club immediately. His 18th birthday is only four days before the end of the season at Brighton and the transfer deadline at the end of March would prevent him from playing until next season. Between now and then he is expected to play for Canada at various levels.
Late last year Peters was the subject of a much-publicised online petition started by TWTD Message Board users. The petition, which was sent to the player's agent, was signed by several thousand Town fans and urged the youngster to join the Blues.