Hillsborough Stadium, Sheffield, Britain - February 13, 2022. Sheffield Wednesday manager Darren Moore.
Sheffield Wednesday starlet Rio Shipston has entered talks to sign his first professional contract with the League One club, according to journalist Joe Crann.
The Lowdown: Shipston profiled
The midfielder has been at Hillsborough ever since the age of just seven and has worked his way up through the ranks to become an integral member of the club’s youth setup.
The Owls ace turned 18 on Monday, meaning that he is now eligible to turn his scholarship deal into a professional one, and it sounds like it won’t be long before he puts pen to paper in Yorkshire.
The Latest: Crann shares Shipston update
Taking to Twitter on Monday in sharing a corresponding article for The Star, Crann revealed that Shipston and Wednesday are now in direct negotiations over professional terms.
He wrote: “Understand that #SWFC have opened up talks with Rio Shipston regarding his first professional contract at the club…
“The midfielder – who turns 18 today – has been with the Owls since he was seven-years-old.”
The Verdict: Fully deserved
Darren Moore handed Shipston his senior debut in the Papa John’s Trophy last month, and after his recent impressive display in the FA Youth Cup over the weekend, a deal would be nothing less than he deserves.
Is Shipston ready to be included in the first team?
Yes
No
The Sheffield-born talent coolly converted his penalty in the 5-4 shootout victory over Burton Albion, and being able to handle himself on a big occasion is just one sign that he is likely ready to make the step up to senior football.
Bailey Cadamarteri and Pierce Charles have already committed themselves to the Owls, and Shipston appears to be the next to follow in their footsteps in the weeks ahead.
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