Arsenal have reportedly failed with an opening bid for Blackburn Rovers' teenage forward Igor Tyjon, but remain optimistic that they can eventually secure his signature.
Alan Nixon reports on his Patreon that the Gunners made a "hush-hush offer" for the 17-year-old, which was turned down. He is one of the brightest attacking talents in the country and is prepared to stay put if Rovers can offer him guaranteed first-team opportunities.
Tyjon has a year left on his contract, which puts the EFL Championship outfit under pressure, especially with the North Londoners keen. They are thought to have tabled a bid of £1m plus extras but this wasn't enough to convince Blue and Whites to sell.
Arsenal's Opening Tyjon Bid Turned Down
The Gunners could return for the England U17 international
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Blackburn do have the option to snub a deal this summer and play him to increase his value at a tribunal. He made his senior debut last season, having caught the eye at youth level, scoring six goals in 10 games in the Premier League 2.
A move to the Emirates would require Tyjon, dubbed "eye-catching", to bide his time regarding breaking into Mikel Arteta's first team. The Gunners are focused on signing a ready-made number nine this summer and are closing in on Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres after agreeing on personal terms with the Swede.
Tyjon joined Rovers from Rochdale's youth system in the summer of 2023 and his stock has grown. He's displayed impressive versatility, able to play out wide on the left, in attacking midfield and in his preferred centre-forward position.
Igor Tyjon (Premier League 2 2024-25)
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The Gunners have a rich history of focusing on youth, and their Hale End academy is one of the most celebrated youth systems in the world. Arteta has shown a willingness to turn to youth, with Myles Lewis-Skelly, 18, and Ethan Nwaneri, 18, becoming first-team regulars last season.
All statistics courtesy of SofaScore- correct as of 06.07.2025
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