YOUNG Blackburn Rovers centre-back Scott Wharton has become the latest Academy prospect to sign a professional deal.

The 17-year-old, who turns 18 on Saturday, has penned a two-and-a-half year deal with the club after rising through the Brockhall ranks.

Wharton, who hails from the Blackburn area, made his debut for Rovers’ Under-21 team in their final game of last season alongside first-team captain Grant Hanley.

And this season the second-year scholar has played every game for Damien Johnson’s development side, including Monday’s 3-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion at Ewood Park.

Rovers have previously tied down starlets Connor Mahoney, David Raya and Ryan Nyambe to pro deals.