Left-back has been something of an issue for Arsenal U21s since the departure of Lino Sousa in February 2024 but it appears that those problems could be set to be addressed.
It was confirmed this week that Marcell Washington will officially leave Chelsea when his scholarship contract expires at the end of this month.
Washington, 17, is expected to sign professional terms with Arsenal in July and it is anticipated that he will be Arsenal’s first-choice option at left-back next season.
Last season Washington made eight appearances for Arsenal U21s as a trialist, while he also featured for the U18s on two occasions.
The youngster relishes pushing forwards and has also developed well defensively, so he could prove to be a useful addition to the squad.
Washington often trained with the first-team towards the end of last season and he could soon be a candidate for further involvement with the senior squad.
Arsenal have also offered a professional contract to another left-back in Cam’ron Ismail as they look to ensure that they have sufficient depth in that position.
Ismail signed for Arsenal as a schoolboy and has been called up by Egypt at U20 level.
Josh Nichols, who made his first-team debut last season, is also capable of playing at left-back, although he is widely seen as being more effective in the opposite full-back berth.
It is possible that Nichols could be loaned out for the first time if he is fully fit.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird