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SportsBrighton hand first pro contract to Tate Ferdinand, son of Rio Ferdinand
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Brighton & Hove Albion have officially handed a first professional contract to Tate Ferdinand, the 17-year-old son of former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand. Tate, a centre-back like his father, confirmed the signing via Instagram. He has been with Brighton's youth system, making 43 appearances in the Under-18 Premier League, scoring twice and providing one assist, and also featuring in the FA Youth Cup, EFL Trophy, and Premier League 2. His brother, Lorenz Ferdinand, is also part of Brighton's under-21 squad. The article also notes that Manchester United manager Michael Carrick's son, Jacey Carrick, recently signed a scholarship with United. The news comes after Manchester United ended the 2025/26 Premier League season with a 3-0 win over Brighton.
Source report
Brighton & Hove Albion have officially handed Tate Ferdinand his first professional contract, the 17-year-old son of former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand.
The Signing
Tate confirmed the news via his Instagram account, sharing a photograph of himself signing the agreement and describing the moment as "buzzing."
The young defender plays in the same position as his father and currently represents Brighton's under-21 side. He previously featured for the club at youth and Under-18 level, making 43 appearances in the Under-18 Premier League, scoring twice and providing one assist. He has also played in the FA Youth Cup, EFL Trophy, and Premier League 2.
Family Connection
Tate is not the only Ferdinand brother at Brighton. His brother, Lorenz Ferdinand, is also part of the club's under-21 squad.
Background
Rio Ferdinand spent 12 years at Old Trafford after joining from Leeds United in 2002. He made more than 450 appearances for Manchester United, winning six Premier League titles and captaining the club during their 2008 Champions League triumph over Chelsea.
Context: Manchester United's 2025/26 Season
Manchester United ended the 2025/26 Premier League season with a 3-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium, finishing third with 71 points. Patrick Dorgu scored once and provided an assist in the win.
Other Notable Academy News
Manchester United have several sons of former players in their academy, including Jacey Carrick, the 16-year-old son of current manager and club legend Michael Carrick. Jacey recently signed his scholarship with the Red Devils, and TTM Football announced that the young midfielder had joined its agency.
This article first appeared on centredevils and was syndicated with permission.
Source
Yardbarker: SoccerWestern
Part of this Story
Brighton & Hove Albion Sign Tate Ferdinand, Son of Manchester United Legend Rio Ferdinand