Mikel Arteta - Arsenal
Clubs that invest in elite teenagers often complete several academy deals in the same short window. Medicals already passed allow official announcements to follow quickly. Young players who train with the first team while featuring at under-21 level gain valuable early exposure.
Versatile forwards and full-backs tracked across multiple seasons finally see long-running interest rewarded. Free transfers with sell-on clauses and modest fees plus add-ons represent efficient recruitment. A third deal that remains close keeps the activity high until the deadline.
READ MORE: Gabriel Martinelli completes move to Al-Hilal
Arsenal are hoping to wrap up deals for three new signings this week. Blackburn Rovers striker Igor Tyjon and Manchester United right-back Habeeb Ogunneye have already undergone medicals, with official confirmations expected within the next 48 hours.
Tyjon has been pursued for well over a year. The Gunners reached an agreement last week to pay £1million up front, with a further £2million due in performance-related add-ons. The 18-year-old England youth international declined professional terms at Ewood Park in order to complete the move and will train with the first team while playing for the under-21s.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Ogunneye will join on a free transfer. Manchester United will retain a 40 per cent sell-on clause if the 20-year-old right-back is sold in the future. He is also expected to train with Mikel Arteta’s senior squad.
Talks continue with United over Gibraltar international winger James Scanlon. The 19-year-old is keen to move alongside Ogunneye and a breakthrough is said to be close, with an announcement possible before the end of the week. His deal is not quite as advanced as the other two.
All three players will initially form part of David Horseman’s under-21 setup. Arteta often gives young players opportunities in the early rounds of the Carabao Cup, so one or more could feature on the bench next month.
Supporters will welcome the continued focus on high-potential talent. The triple arrival strengthens Arsenal’s development pathway as the club finalises remaining business before the window closes. Formal announcements are expected shortly.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta