Deal Almost Done: Arsenal in Advanced Talks to Sign Record-Breaking Teenage Midfield Talent

Arsenal are reportedly close to securing a record-breaking deal for a highly-rated teenage midfielder, continuing their busy summer transfer activity.

The Gunners recently travelled to Singapore for their pre-season tour, with several academy talents joining the first team.

Notable names include Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri, as well as promising under-16 players Max Dowman and Marli Salmon. Manager Mikel Arteta has shown a strong commitment to youth development, giving young players a pathway to first-team football.

While Arsenal have made significant additions to their senior squad—completing deals for Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, and Noni Madueke—attention is also being given to the club’s future. According to journalist James McNicholas, a portion of this summer’s transfer budget has been allocated to academy recruitment under the leadership of Per Mertesacker, head of youth development.

Talks for the teenage midfielder are described as being at an advanced stage, with a deal progressing well behind the scenes. The move is expected to set a new benchmark for academy signings at Arsenal, reflecting the club’s strategy of blending top-tier youth prospects with experienced first-team players.

With sporting director Andrea Berta overseeing an ambitious recruitment drive and Arteta embracing homegrown talent, Arsenal appear focused on building both for the present and long-term future. The highly anticipated arrival of this teenage talent could signal another step in the club’s evolution under Arteta’s guidance.