The midfielder has chosen to join United despite receiving an offer from Arsenal, with the star set to sign his contract in the coming days.
Arsenal have missed out on another highly-rated academy prospect after Manchester United reached an agreement to sign Manchester City youngster David Eze.
According to TheSecretScout, the 16-year-old midfielder has chosen to join United despite receiving an offer from Arsenal, with the teenager set to sign his first professional contract once he turns 17.
BOOM 💥 David Eze to Manchester United! 16yo joins from Manchester City. Also had an offer from Arsenal however he has agreed to join #mufc and will sign pro once he’s turn 17s https://t.co/qTd7JfH4RJ pic.twitter.com/Pgy26xFjmB
— TheSecretScout (@TheSecretScout_) July 22, 2026
Eze is regarded as one of the standout talents in Manchester City’s academy and has represented England at Under-16 level. The midfielder had attracted interest from several clubs after it became clear he would be leaving City this summer.
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The report states that Arsenal made a serious attempt to convince Eze to move to north London and submitted an offer as they looked to strengthen their academy with another elite young talent.
However, Manchester United have now won the race for his signature, with an agreement understood to be in place ahead of his official arrival.
The teenager’s move continues a busy summer of academy recruitment across the Premier League, with England’s leading clubs competing aggressively to secure the country’s most promising young players before they break into senior football.
Arsenal have made youth recruitment a key part of their long-term strategy, continuing to invest heavily in Hale End while targeting top prospects from rival academies.
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The Gunners have already completed several academy additions this summer and remain active in the youth market, but Eze appears set to become another player who slips through their grasp.
For Manchester United, securing the signature of a player developed within Manchester City’s academy represents another significant recruitment success, particularly given the level of competition for his services.
Although Eze is still several years away from senior football, he is viewed as a player with considerable potential, and United will hope he can continue his development before eventually progressing towards the first team.
Arsenal’s interest demonstrates the club’s determination to recruit the very best young talent available, but on this occasion it is Manchester United who have come out on top.
With Eze now expected to complete the move and sign professional terms when eligible, Arsenal will quickly turn their attention to other academy targets as they continue building for the future.
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David Eze