AFC Wimbledon have tied down 17-year-old Archie Procter, agreeing terms for his first professional contract.
The centre-back is set to take part in LFE’s Erasmus+ pre-season trip with the rest of the Under-18s squad towards the end of the month, with the Dons being hosted by Real Betis.
Manager Wally Downes told the club website: “It’s great news to sign Archie. He’s a very mature boy, very solid, and he’s a leader with the youngsters. He has stepped into the pro group now and we will be looking to get him playing.
“We might even get him out on loan to step-up his development. It’s a very proud day for Archie and his family and we are happy to have him here at Wimbledon.”
Procter added: “I like to think that I’m a leader on the pitch – I try to help out my team-mates. When times are difficult I want players to be able to come to me and know that I’m here to help. I want to be one of those players on the pitch. That’s one of my strong points.
“This (signing a pro deal) is everything I had ever wanted. I can’t believe it, but I know I’ve worked hard so I think I deserve it. I was hoping it might happen next year, but everything I’ve worked for in every training session has now come to this point.
“Since I was 11 years of age I’ve been at this Academy and this is massive for me. I know I’m young, but I have to show the manager what I’m about and I have to earn the respect of the players.
“I’ve been able to train with the first team recently, so that’s what I’m trying to do. I have to keep learning every day and keep working hard, that’s all I can do.”
