Brighton sign up Real Madrid starlet

Scottish youngster Jack Harper has quit the La Liga side in search of regular football

Jack Harper seen here in action for the Real Madrid youth team, has joined Brighton. Photograph: Getty Images
Jack Harper seen here in action for the Real Madrid youth team, has joined Brighton. Photograph: Getty Images

Scottish starlet Jack Harper has quit Real Madrid to join Championship side Brighton.

The 19-year-old striker, born in Malaga to Scottish parents, has been at the Bernabeu since he was 13 and was once compared to Robin van Persie by former Scotland performance director Mark Wotte.

But Harper has opted to leave the Spanish giants and, having completed a medical with Brighton, he has agreed a two-year contract subject to international clearance.

Albion boss Chris Hughton said: "Even at the age of 19, Jack is a well-known name and having spent the past six years at Real Madrid, there is no doubting his pedigree.

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“He has a lot of potential, is a skilful type, with a good eye for goal, and can operate as a striker or playing just off of a striker. We hope we can give him the platform to realise his undoubted potential.

“He has had an excellent grounding, having come through the youth system at Real Madrid — and also has international experience at youth level, having featured for Scotland’s Under-17 and Under-19 sides.”