CHELSEA have confirmed the capture of promising Saints goalkeeper Eddie Beach for an undisclosed fee.

Six-times Wales under-19 international Beach, who attended Priestlands school, in Lymington, will link up with the London giants’ academy set up.

Still only 18, Beach has previously played in the Premier League 2 for Saints, alongside helping the under-18 side to the Premier League national final, where they were defeated by Manchester City at St Mary’s.

Jim Fraser, Chelsea’s assistant head of youth development and head of youth recruitment, told the club’s website: “We are very pleased to bring Eddie to the club.

“He is a talented goalkeeper with good potential and will join our development squad for the coming season.”

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The Daily Echo understands that numerous non-league clubs had spoken to Saints about taking the youngster on loan next season, including seventh-tier Poole Town, although interest from Chelsea nipped any potential deals in the bud.

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