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Bristol City have signed 19-year-old midfielder Josh Stokes from National League side Aldershot Town.

Stokes has agreed a three-and-a-half-year deal with the Championship side, who have paid an undisclosed fee.

Aldershot said the fee received was a record sum for the club and Stokes will return to his former employers on loan for the remainder of this season.

"Josh is a fantastic talent who will only improve," Bristol City technical director Brian Tinnion said.

"We wish him all the best for the remainder of the season with Aldershot and look forward to seeing him in the summer."

Stokes only joined Aldershot in the summer from Isthmian League North side AFC Sudbury and has gone on to score 16 goals in 29 appearances.

"It's come as no surprise to any of us that Josh [and others] have attracted so much interest considering the season he and we've had so far," Aldershot Tommy Widdrington said.

"It should also come as a stark reminder of what's possible to any player who's faced disappointment at any stage of a fledgling career and act as a motivation to keep at it and believe in yourself.

"There were lots of clubs at all levels keen to acquire Josh's services, but I think Bristol City is a great fit for all parties to continue his football journey."

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