Rio Ferdinand's 18-year-old boy signs first professional contract with Premier League club

Lorenz Ferdinand, 18, is aiming to carve out his own path to Premier League stardom, following in the footsteps of his legendary father, Rio, who made 455 appearances for Manchester United.

Unlike his father, a renowned centre-back, Lorenz has signed his first professional contract with Brighton as a goalkeeper.

He has already debuted in the Premier League 2 this year. Ferdinand Jr joined Brighton’s academy at the Under-13 level and gained valuable experience last season on loan at Havant and Waterlooville, where he established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper.

Back at the Amex, he is one of 13 players promoted to professional contracts. Brighton’s academy boss, Ian Buckman, praised the group, saying,

“We’re pleased to see this cohort of players sign their first professional contracts here, with a number of them at the club from a very young age. All of them have already had some form of experience with the under-21s, while a few have been involved with the first team.

"We look forward to them continuing their careers with us and helping them develop over the coming years.”

Rio Ferdinand played 455 times for Manchester United, winning six Premier League titles, a Champions League, two League Cups, and four Community Shields.