“Watford are getting an outstanding young man and footballer.” That is the view of Stevenage chairman Phil Wallace after Ben Wilmot moved to Vicarage Road.

The highly-rated 18-year-old became the Hornets first signing of the summer yesterday when he moved across Hertfordshire on a five-year deal for what is an “all-time record transfer” for his former club.

“We are all absolutely delighted for Ben and are full of confidence that he will thrive in Premier League surroundings,” Wallace told the Stevenage website. “We wish him all the best and would like to thank him, his family, his agent and Watford for their co-operation during this process.

“We have always known he was a Premier League talent and it is no surprise that our recent emphasis on player development would result in news like this. Watford are getting an outstanding young man and footballer.

“The pathway from our Academy to first team has never been clearer which obviously bodes well for the future.

“A record sale is huge news for the club and financially, extremely useful. We will ensure the funds are used sensibly and in the best interests of Stevenage FC.”

Having joined Stevenage’s Academy as a 14-year-old, Wilmot appeared 15 times for his former club as they finished 16th in League Two and also made his England Under-19 debut in March.