Maidstone defender Chris Smalling has agreed terms with Premier League side Fulham.

The highly-rated 18-year-old centre back had initially looked set for a move to the Cottagers' Premier League rivals Middlesbrough but opted against relocating to the North East last month.

He has now agreed terms on a three year deal with the west London side where he will be managed by former Maidstone player Roy Hodgson, who remains close to Stones director Bill Williams.

A Fulham spokesman said: "The Club can confirm the signing of development player Chris Smalling. The 18-year-old centre half formerly played for Maidstone and joins the Whites on a three year deal."

The former Chatham Grammar School pupil has already represented England at schoolboy level and won a host of league admirers with impressive displays in his first full season with the Stones in the Ryman League, Premier Divison last season.