Dungannon Swifts say all associated with the Irish League club are “incredibly proud” of their teenage sensation Daniel McCarron after officially confirming his move to Premier League champions Arsenal.
McCarron’s summer switch to the Emirates will see him join the Gunners’ latest intake of scholars ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The highly-rated 16-year-old made his Premiership debut for the Swifts as a substitute on the final day of last term against Larne and had also been previously included in matchday squads.
McCarron made eight appearances in NIFL’s U20 Premiership Development League throughout the 2025/26 campaign and starred for Dungannon’s U18s as they finished third in the Academy League alongside winning the Mid Ulster Youth Cup.
Dungannon Swifts management and players with Daniel McCarron ahead of his move to Arsenal. (Photo by Dungannon Swifts FC)placeholder image
Dungannon Swifts management and players with Daniel McCarron ahead of his move to Arsenal. (Photo by Dungannon Swifts FC)
He now becomes the latest Irish League youngster to seal a dream move across the water, joining the Premier League giants after spending a trial period in London.
"Daniel McCarron has officially moved to Premier League Champions, Arsenal as part of their 2026/27 Scholar Intake and recently he came down to pre-season training to say goodbye to his former teammates,” Dungannon posted. “Daniel departs Dungannon Swifts FC having made his first team debut against Larne FC in the league along with winning the Mid-Ulster Youth Cup with the U18's, Subway Northern Ireland Cup and Cross Border Subway Youth Cup.
“Dungannon Swifts FC are incredibly proud of Daniel and we all look forward to watching the next chapter of his journey at Arsenal FC unfold.”
Northern Ireland U17 international McCarron has been described as a “versatile centre-back with the ability to play on both sides” by his new club and is also set to sign a professional contract.
"The player has also signed a pre-contract agreement that will lead to him signing professional terms with us,” Arsenal confirmed on their website. “The 16-year-old, who has been part of the Dungannon Swifts first team squad in the NIFL Premiership this season, is a versatile centre-back with the ability to play on both sides.
“A Northern Ireland youth international, who has already spent a successful time on trial with us, Daniel will join up with the rest of our new scholars in July this year, ahead of next season.
"Everyone at Arsenal welcomes Daniel to the club and looks forward to supporting him with his continued development.”