Cambridge United youngster and England youth international Kai Yearn signs first professional deal

Kai Yearn has signed his first professional contract with Cambridge United.

The Soham-raised 17-year-old enjoyed a memorable 2021/22 campaign, during which he made five senior appearances and become the youngest goalscorer in the League One club's history.

And now the England youth international, who is a former Soham Village College pupil and Soham Town Rangers youth player, has committed his future to the Abbey Stadium.

He told the club's website: “I am over the moon. It is what I have been waiting for so I am happy to have finally signed. Hopefully I can push on next season and have another good one.

"Now it’s about getting that next one and progressing in my footballing career.”

Meanwhile, Cambridge's academy director Dom Knighton added: “We are delighted that we are in a position to offer Kai his first professional contract. As a local lad that has progressed all the way through the academy system, it will be a proud moment for Kai and his family but also for all of the staff past and present who have played a significant part in his journey to date.

“We have been thrilled with Kai’s progression this season which has included another international call up with England U17s. The exposure that he has had to the first team environment has been really pleasing and will only continue to benefit Kai in his development.

“Kai is an exciting player who has the ability to create match winning moments of which we have seen this season in the FA Youth Cup and also in the Cambridgeshire Invitation Cup final at the Abbey Stadium.

“Alongside our other young pro’s it is vital that we continue to stretch and challenge Kai to ensure that he is best prepared to take his opportunities when they arise.”