BRADFORD (Park Avenue) midfielder Alex Hurst has joined League Two side Port Vale.
The 19-year-old returns to Horsfall though on loan until January 2020.
Hurst was one of three players who were retained from Avenue's successful campaign last season.
The youngster signs for Port Vale for an undisclosed fee, having spent the last month training with them.
Hurst earnt himself a two-year deal having impressed and the Valiants' first team coach Danny Pugh was at Avenue's final pre-season game against Huddersfield.
Avenue owner, Gareth Roberts, explained the move is indicative of the club's ability to find and develop gems, with their extensive scouting network.
Roberts said: "Alex has shown that there is a development pathway here at Park Avenue.
"This move is a case study of the model that we are developing at the club.
"The key to this deal was getting Alex back at Horsfall. We are thankful to Port Vale for the flexibility they have shown.
"Alex is hopefully just the start as we aim to continue to find untapped talent."
Hurst played in Avenue's 5-0 opening loss to Curzon Ashton in the Vanarama National League North.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here