Eastleigh Football Club are proud to announce that our EDS player, Alex Wilkie, has signed a pro-deal at QPR following a successful trial with the Championship club.

Wilkie, 19, joined Eastleigh FC in 2022 for a season before returning to the club, earning a place in our Elite Development Squad last summer.

The centre-back, who also played his part in midfield over the years, has been an extremely consistent and high performing player during his time.

After signing his pro-deal with QPR, Alex Wilkie, said: “My time at Eastleigh FC has been a fantastic experience. The opportunity to train full-time and gain consistent match minutes played a key role in my development, both technically and mentally. The coaching staff and training environment have helped me grow as a player, and I’d recommend the club to anyone serious about taking the next step in their football journey.

“I’m thrilled to be joining QPR and excited for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead next season.”

Upon this move, our Head of Academy, Jason Bristow, said: “We’re thrilled for Alex, whose outstanding commitment both on and off the pitch has earned him this opportunity. His success is yet another testament to the excellent work being done by our program and coaching staff. In recent years, players from our ranks have progressed to clubs such as Bournemouth, Southampton, Wigan, Wycombe Wanderers, and now QPR.

“The scholarship and EDS program at Eastleigh Football Club continues to provide a fantastic pathway—not only for those aspiring to join our first team, but also for those with ambitions to reach the EFL and Premier League.

“Congratulations, Alex! We’re excited to follow your journey.”

Our EDS Head Coach, Luke Hardy, commented on this move by saying: “Alex has been a joy to work with this season. Having first joined us at the Under-16 level, he went on to sign with Cheltenham Town after a strong campaign. Following his two-year scholarship, he returned to Eastleigh FC as part of our EDS programme.

“Throughout this season, Alex has shown tremendous growth and has been a key member of the group. It’s been a pleasure to coach him and watch his game develop. I’m absolutely thrilled to see him return to the professional game, and I’ll be following his journey with great interest.

“His story is just one of many successes to come out of the EDS programme.”

We would like to wish Alex all the best for his promising career!