Bolton Wanderers sign former Ipswich Town academy forward Charlie Warren after impressive season with Felixstowe & Walton United

Charlie Warren has insisted that he is ‘ready for the challenge’ of professional football after completing his move to Bolton Wanderers.

The forward has signed a two-year deal – with the option of a further 12 months – at the Toughsheet Community Stadium following a stellar season in the Isthmian League North Division with Suffolk outfit Felixstowe & Walton United.

The 21-year-old scored a total of 34 goals to help the Seasiders finish runners-up alongside lifting the Suffolk Premier Cup for the first time in the club’s history.

Warren, who was previously part of the academy at Ipswich Town until the age of 14, had a trial spell with Bolton in February and seemingly did enough to impress the Trotters’ coaching staff.

He told the League One side’s website: “I've always wanted to be a professional and it’s something I've always worked towards.

“I didn't let leaving Ipswich at that age affect me. I just kept trying to push and I knew that there'd be a way from non-league. I just needed the right opportunities and scoring most weeks also helped put my name out there.

“I did feel like last season I was progressing the most and I did feel like this could be the one where I get that pro contract. It's a big achievement for me and I'm proud of it.

“Bolton is a massive club and it's a massive step up for me but I feel like I'm ready for the challenge and I'm just excited to go and start.”

Meanwhile, Wanderers head coach Steven Schumacher added: “We’re delighted to win the race to bring Charlie to the club. He made a great impression on us all when he trialled earlier in the year and we’ve kept a keen eye on his progress, working to get this sorted once his season concluded.

“He’s a young player with clear potential and a good goalscoring instinct. This is an excellent opportunity for him to step up and continue his football education within our environment, and we’re looking forward to working with him and helping him develop.”