BANGOR City have struck a partnership with an Italian football giant for a landmark youth training initiative.

The Citizens’ became the first club in the United Kingdom to be part of Inter Milan’s Academy programme, which will enable youngsters from across the region to benefit from coaching by staff members from the Serie A side.

This landmark move was arranged by club president Domenico Serafino and is part of his ongoing plan to get the club back to the heart of the community.

He said: “We all know that in Wales there is a hotbed of young, skilful players and this is a chance for them to make the most of their ability.

“Inter’s coaches will come over here and work on a daily basis with the players and instil in them the routines and practices that they will need to get to the top of the game.

"I'd also like to thank the Welsh football association for its support and cooperation this season."

The Inter Academy Wales is open for aspiring players aged between six and 18, and there are 22 such programmes being run by the club worldwide.

As part of the initiative, young hopefuls will also get the chance to visit the legendary San Siro stadium, which hosts both Inter and AC Milan home fixtures.

An unconfirmed Inter legend will also be coming to Bangor to witness the Academy programme first-hand.

Alessandro Antonello, FC Internazionale Milano Corporate CEO, added: “We’re delighted to announce the opening of this new Inter Academy, the first in the UK.

“We’re pleased that a club with such long traditions as Bangor City FC has bought into our project and decided to join the Inter family.

“The partnership will facilitate mutual growth by sharing Inter’s expertise with a country that is placing great importance on the development of football.”