One former Gers winger has landed a mega move to one of the big dogs down south
14:50, 15 Sep 2025
Archie Stevens won the Scottish Youth Cup with Rangers in 2024
Archie Stevens was one of 13 academy players released by Rangers last summer after failing to agree terms over a new contract.
But the England youth international will now be trying to catch the eye of Arsenal manager and former Gers star Mikel Arteta after signing a professional contract with the North London giants.
Stevens, 19, arrived at Ibrox three years ago as a highly-rated prospect from AFC Wimbledon but would make just one first team appearance for Rangers as a late substitute in a Premier Sports Cup victory against Queen of the South.
The winger spend the second half of last season on loan at Dunfermline in Scotland's second tier, where he made 10 outings.
Stevens was heavily linked with English Premier League new boys Leeds United but has joined up with Max Porter's youth development side at the Emirates after impressing during in a trial period.
And the ex Light Blues kid is now dreaming of trying to break into an Arsenal team that have competed for the Premier League title in each of the last four seasons.
Speaking to the club's website, he said: "I can’t wait to show what I can do. Obviously, it’s such a massive club, so it’s a dream come true to be here, I’m just grateful for the opportunity.
"I went on loan to Dunfermline towards the end of the season and learned loads there. We were in a relegation scrap at the start, so that taught me a lot, and we managed to stay up. So I’ve seen a lot of things on and off the pitch.
"My first game was against Chelmsford in pre-season, I think I gave a good account of myself. Then we had the Monaco game out in France, which was a great opportunity. I came on in the last 30 minutes, so I wanted to make an impact.
Per Mertesacker (left) with Archie Stevens
"I saw the ball come to me in quite a wide area, but I thought I need to get something away, whether it’s a shot or a pass and I went for goal."
Ex Gunners defender and current academy manager Per Mertesacker added: "Since Archie has been with us, he has really impressed as a person and player. He has fit into our environment seamlessly and has been really impressive in matches and in training.
Article continues below
"Archie has absolutely earned this next stage in his career with his professional contract with us.
"We welcome Archie to our Academy and are all looking forward to working with him in his continued development."