'It's been a dream come true': Highly-rated youngster signs professional contract with Blackpool

The 17-year-old has agreed a two-year deal that also includes an option for a further 12 months.

The attacking midfielder scored nine goals for the youth team last season while also claiming 10 assists.

He's continued his fine form this term, adding a further two goals and three assists while also catching the eye in Blackpool's recent FA Youth Cup outing against Bradford City.

“I’m made up to sign my first professional contract," Apter said.

"It’s been a dream come true and I couldn’t be happier.

"I’ve had to work hard to get in this position and now I need to work even harder to try and get involved with the first-team squad.”

News of Apter's contract will come as welcome news for Blackpool after they lost young talent Tony Weston to Rangers during the summer.

Weston opted to make the move to Ibrox for a cut price, something he was allowed to do given he wasn't old enough to agree professional terms with the Seasiders.

Academy Director Ciaran Donnelly said: “We are delighted that Rob has committed his immediate future to the football club.

"Rob is an exciting, young talent that the supporters will enjoy watching develop over the coming years.

"Credit goes to those coaches and staff within the academy that have worked with him over the last couple of years to get him to this point.

"We look forward to helping Rob take his career to that next level.”