Talented youngster Jack Vale has signed his first professional contract with Rovers. 

The 17-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a two-and-a-half-year deal, which will keep him at Ewood Park until the summer of 2020.

Vale was one of the standout performers for Rovers Under-18s as they reached the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals. He netted in the last eight defeat to Blackpool having scored a terrific hat-trick in the win over Nottingham Forest in round five.

A first-year scholar, Vale celebrated his 17th birthday earlier this month, but has already represented Rovers at Under-23s level, making his debut for Damien Johnson's side in the 4-0 victory over Fulham in September.

Vale, who can play all along the front line, is a regular for his country at youth level, capped six times by the Under-17s, scoring one goal.

He will join up with the Under-19s squad tomorrow ahead of their two international friendly matches against Croatia next week.