PORTLAND United have secured their first new addition of the summer as forward Freddie Beale joins the Blues for the 2024/25 season.

Beale is a teenage forward under the Eastleigh umbrella and featured prominently for the Spitfires’ development side, Eastleigh Oranges, last season.

Beale weighed in with nine goals in 19 appearances as Eastleigh won the National League Under-19 Alliance Division D by a single point from Basingstoke.

Speaking to Portland’s media team, boss Kyle Critchell said: “I am delighted Freddie has trusted us to support the next phase in his development and transition into adult football.

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“I have seen first-hand how talented Fred is as he's been training with us throughout last season.

“During that time what really stood out is his character and hunger to want to improve. This trait is becoming synonymous within Portland United Football Club.  

“I hope Freddie enjoys his football and the challenges ahead. Freddie will combine his time with us whilst attending and completing his second-year scholarship programme with Eastleigh.”

Beale joins Shaun Bessant, Jamie Symes, Crit Clarke, Hayden Scott, Matt Harvey, Jacob Coombs, Jamie Cleaver, skipper Josh Williams, vice Connor Callow, Greg Borthwick, Joe Wickham, Jack Delves, Sam Gadsby, Harrison Bruton and Josh Camp in agreeing terms for 2024/25.