Southampton have given Under-18s defender Tommy Dobson-Ventura his first professional contract,
The 17-year-old has signed a deal running until 2026, just a few months after signing his scholarship deal.
Joining Saints when he was eight years old, and made 15 appearances in his debut season for the Under-18s last year. He also made his debut for the Under-21s against Nottingham Forest back in March.
The centre back will now be hoping to break into the Under-21s on a regular basis after signing his new deal.
What Tommy Dobson-Ventura had to say
“It’s a great achievement,” Dobson-Ventura told the club website. “I feel like it’s what you’re working to ever since you were a little lad. So it just feels amazing to sit down and sign my first ever professional contract.
“Last season helped me build confidence, especially as an under-16 playing up. Now I can do it as an Under-18 and help the boys who haven’t done it before. I’m really leading the process of going through the [FA Youth] Cup.
“The aims this season are to smash it out with the 18s, get performances and results, and hopefully push on with Under-21s football and go from there.”
Academy director Andy Goldie also spoke the deal, expressing his delight for Dobson-Ventura.
Goldie said: “It’s a proud moment for Tommy, his family and all the Academy staff who have played a small part of his journey so far, and we are pleased to see another young talent commit his future to the club.
“During my short time at the club, it’s been evident that Tommy is a real leader within the Under-18s group and someone who demands a lot from himself and others around him – his challenge now is to maintain those levels to enable him to continue to build on the successes he has earned so far.”
Meanwhile, Paul Onuachu is attracting interest from Trabzonspor.