American Idol runner-up David Archuleta has signed a record deal with 19 Recordings/Jive Records, Reuters reports.

The 17-year-old from Utah lost out to David Cook in last month's American Idol live final.

Archuleta told Access Hollywood: "Signing a record contract with 19 Recordings/Jive Records is truly a dream come true. Being a fan of American Idol since season one and admiring the alumni, I am honoured and humbled to be a part of that group. I'm really excited to start working on everything."

Simon Fuller, the British creator of the Idol format and founder of 19, described Archuleta as "a genuine popstar and a gifted singer."

Archuleta's debut album is expected to be released later this year.

Chris Daughtry, Jennifer Hudson and Clay Aiken have all gone on to have successful post-Idol careers, despite not winning the talent contest.