Eastbourne Borough can announce midfielder Brayden Johnson has joined EFL Championship side Middlesbrough for an undisclosed fee.

The tenacious midfielder has been a key part of Adam Murray’s side in the first half of the campaign, and after some impressive performances the 18-year-old has earned himself the opportunity of playing in the second tier of English football.

At only 18, Johnson had been the subject of interest from many EFL clubs, and it’s Middlesbrough who have captured the youngster, who had made thirty appearances for the Sports this season – scoring one goal and getting two assists.

Chief Executive Alan Williams said: “It’s never easy to make an announcement when you sell a player, it’s hard for the supporters to accept, especially when Brayden has been so good for us this season.

“But it’s also hard for the staff, football and non-football, who have all played their part in creating an environment where he has been able to thrive and shine.

“Special mentions obviously to Adam and his team for the exceptional coaching and development, to Nick the Chef for making sure he was well fuelled and to John and Kim – who’s pastoral care adds so much value to what we are doing.

“Please remember we have never gone back on what we said at the start of this journey – we are here to develop people into the best version of themselves.

“It’s neither correct or acceptable to do anything other than allow him to go, with our blessing and best wishes.

“Both myself, Simon and Adam have great pride in what has been achieved with Brayden and so should anyone who had the pleasure of watching him play.”

Johnson is the fourth player Borough have sold to a club at a higher level in the last twelve months – following Fletcher Holman’s move to Premier League Wolves, Shiloh Remy’s switch to Dagenham & Redbridge and Leone Gravata’s transfer to York City.