The 17-year-old centre half joined the Isthmian League North Division outfit from Ilford last summer and played well in the eight-tier that attracted the interest of the Blues.

Shabazz-Edwards has impressed for John McGreal’s under-21s side in games against Watford and Charlton Athletic at Playford Road last month. He has now been awarded with a professional deal at Portman Road.

He stands at 6ft 4in tall and is a modern day defender, who reads the game well and very composed all the ball. He also shows a willingness to put in a tackle.

The youngster wrote on his Instagram: “Delighted to sign my first professional contract for Ipswich Town.”