Tottenham Sign Ashley Phillips After Activating £2m Release Clause In Teenager's Blackburn Contract

Teenage defender Ashley Phillips has joined Tottenham Hotspur from Blackburn Rovers. Spurs paid Blackburn £2 million after activating a release clause.

Teenage defender Ashley Phillips has joined Tottenham Hotspur from Blackburn Rovers.

The 18-year-old center-back has signed a five-year deal with Spurs until the summer of 2028.

According to BBC Sport, Spurs paid Blackburn a £2 million transfer fee after activating a release clause in his contract with the EFL Championship side.

Welcome to Tottenham Hotspur, Ashley Phillips! 📝 pic.twitter.com/iFq5K2NjiA

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 5, 2023

Phillips featured in 14 games for Blackburn last season after making his senior debut in August 2022.

His performances saw him win the EFL Championship Apprentice of the Season award.

Phillips - who has represented England at U19 level - said goodbye to Blackburn in a statement published on the club's official website.

He wrote: "I want to thank the club for everything they've done for me, because without the club I wouldn't be getting this move.

"I've been here since I was 12 years old and from the Academy all the way up to the senior team it's been a great experience and I appreciate everything everyone has done for me.

"All the players and staff behind the scenes have helped me so much both on and off the pitch, and I just want to say thank you for my development so far. I’ve matured so much at a young age and it really means a lot.

"Blackburn Rovers will always have a place in my heart and I wish the club all the best going forward."

Ashley Phillips pictured playing for Blackburn Rovers during the 2022/23 season :: IMAGO/Pro Sports Images/Craig Galloway