The England Under-18 international was a regular for the Seagulls at youth team level last season, making 22 appearances as the South Coast side reached the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals and finished eighth in the Under-18 Premier League southern section.

Sturge also made one appearance in Premier League 2 in 2021/22, having made his debut at that age group the previous season. During a three-year stay at Brighton, he played predominantly as an attack-minded left-back, utilising his athleticism and impressive speed.

Prior to that, the 18-year-old played grassroots football in west London, where he was born and grew up.

Head of youth recruitment Jim Fraser said: ‘We are really pleased that Zak has agreed to sign for Chelsea, where he will initially strengthen our Under-21s squad as he looks to continue his development. Zak is another emerging talent to join us this summer and we cannot wait for him to get started at Cobham.’