Oldham Athletic have confirmed that rising star Zak Emmerson has joined Premier League Brighton for an undisclosed fee.

The striker’s move has been rumoured for several weeks and was officially announced on Wednesday afternoon.

Emmerson made history at the start of the 2019/20 season as he became the youngest ever player to represent Latics, as well as the second-youngest in the EFL, at 15 years and 73 days.

In all he made three first-team appearances including a first start in the Leasing.Com Trophy against Fleetwood back in November.

Head of Academy Paul Murray said: "I'd just like to start by congratulating Zak on his move and it is something that will completely change his life.

"He is a part of a growing group of players now who have graduated from the academy and gained professional deals, whether that be at Oldham or elsewhere, and as a result has become another real asset to the club.

"Zak has epitomised all of the values we want from our players with his mentality, attitude and work ethic. At such a young age he is mature beyond his years.

"It's a great lesson to others as he's had an opportunity thanks to the head coach for putting him into the team and has taken it at the first time of asking. As a result he was spotted by Brighton and they've kept an eye on him ever since.

"He's a very grounded person and I know Brighton will take really good care of him. They're a club that like to nurture and improve their young players and I fully believe we'll see him in the international youth setups in the not too distant future."