Albion scholar Alfie Maughan recently marked his 17th birthday by penning professional terms with the club.
Following a successful maiden term in the scholarship group, which saw the right-back provide 14 assists and help the Under-18s reach the last eight of the FA Youth Cup, Maughan’s development has been rewarded with a two-year pro deal until the summer of 2027.
The Baggies has been a lifelong commitment for the defender from Tamworth, who first joined the club’s youth system aged six, progressing through the development sides to reach the level all academy players dream of getting to - the professional stage.
Capable with both left and right foot, the full-back can cover either of the wide defensive positions and, as his assists total for the 24/25 campaign proves, is a key attacking outlet down the flanks.
A regular set-piece taker, the recently-turned 17-year-old also featured for the U21s last season - playing a handful of matches across both Premier League 2 and National League Cup competitions.
After getting a taste of action among Albion’s young professionals, Alfie will hope to build on this contract by gaining further experience in the PL2 team, and Academy Manager Richard Stevens believes the club will “see the fruits of his work” for years to come.
He said: “Alfie’s another boy who’s been in the system since pre-academy, is Albion through and through, and loves everything about the football club.
“He comes in every day like it’s the most important thing to him and as a footballer, he really has developed.
“When I first came in, Alfie was in the Under-12s and even then he was a standout, but ever since he has really maintained that growth and quality throughout his schoolboy years.
“During his first year as a scholar, Alfie has continued that development. He’s been excellent, impacting games with his deliveries with both feet from crosses, set plays, moments in the final third, and that aspect is a strength of his.
“At the other end of the pitch, he’s improving all of the time with his defending and is another who can take his football career as far as he can.
“This club can help him do that and it was really important we offered Alfie this contract
“Hopefully, Albion will see the fruits of his work over years to come.”
