Rio Ferdinand’s son Lorenz has become the latest in the expanding lineup of nepo-babies to secure spots in Premier League teams, having graduated from Brighton’s youth academy.

The 18-year-old, the oldest offspring of the Manchester United legend and his late first wife Rebecca Ellison, initially joined the Seagulls as part of their under-13 group.

Ferdinand, who plays as a goalkeeper, has quickly risen through the ranks and featured in his first Premier League 2 game this year.  

During his six unbeaten appearances, Lorenz kept two clean sheets in an impressive showing for the Southern League outfit.  

Lorenz is among 13 young talents who have signed professional contracts with Fabian Hurzeler’s team, with Harry Howell and Freddie Simmonds being some of those who have already had the opportunity to train with the first team.

‘We’re pleased to see this cohort of players sign their first professional contracts here, with a number of them at the club from a very young age,’ academy manager Ian Buckman said.

‘All of them have already had some form of experience with the under-21s, while a few have been involved with the first team.

‘We look forward to them continuing their careers with us and helping them develop over the coming years.’

Lorenz’s new deal means he joins fellow sons of Premier League legends in signing for a top flight outfit.

Kai Rooney, 15, son of Rio’s former team-mate and England captain Wayne, is currently earning rave reviews at Manchester United, while Emile Heskey’s sons Jaden, 18, and Reigan, 16, have performed well in Man City’s under-21 team. 

They will hope to be following in the path of the likes of Jayden Danns, son of ex-Liverpool star Neil, who made his debut for the Anfield club last year.

In a dream scenario, the youngsters could emulate Liam Delap, son of Stoke City’s former long throw specialist Rory, who has earned a £30million move to Chelsea this summer after an impressive debut Premier League season at Ipswich.  

The fresh deal for Lorenz comes one year after the shot-stopper signed with New Era Sports Management, a company whose current clients include Everton stars Michael Keane and Mason Holgate, Wrexham’s Ollie Palmer, and Atalanta’s Ben Godfrey. 

New Era has Ferdinand Snr and Lorenz’s uncle Anton as ambassadors and mentors within the company, which was founded by ex-professional footballers Jamie Moralee and Peter Smith in 2007. 

At the time, his father posted on Instagram: ‘Our eldest is on his own journey in football. Another nice moment signing with @neweraglobalsports, well earned through hard work & dedication.

‘It’s a long road full of ups and downs, so the right & professional support is required – so step forward @neweraglobalsports. Love you Lorenz.’

Ahead of joining up with the senior team for pre-season, Lorenz has been enjoying some necessary down time, sharing a slew of pictures from his holiday abroad to Instagram.