Cardiff City youngster Axel Donczew has joined Premier League champions Arsenal
Axel Donczew has left Cardiff City for Arsenal(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd)
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Cardiff City youngster Axel Donczew has completed his move to Arsenal.
The 16-year-old has put pen to paper in a deal to join the Premier League champions in a move that has been trailed heavily this summer.
It was reported back in July that the teenager had completed a medical with the Gunners.
The youngster has long been regarded as one of the club's standout academy prospects and became the youngest player in Cardiff City's history when he made his senior debut in the EFL Trophy last season.
The Bluebirds have now confirmed his departure in a short statement, adding that they offered terms in an attempt to keep him in south Wales.
"Cardiff City FC can confirm that an agreement has been reached for the transfer of Axel Donczew to Arsenal," it read.
"Axel became our youngest player aged 15 years and 234 days old in October 2025, a record now held by Noah Anyadike.
"The club had offered terms for Donczew to continue his development with the Bluebirds and made efforts to retain the player, but he opted to pursue a move away from the Welsh capital. We wish Axel the best of luck for the future."
He will now link up with the north London side's academy.
Arsenal said in their statement: "We’re delighted to announce the signing of 16-year-old midfielder Axel Donczew.
"The young Welshman joins us from Cardiff City as part of our first-year scholarship intake. The player has also signed a pre-contract agreement that will lead to him signing professional terms with us.
"Our new midfielder made history last season when he made his professional debut for the Bluebirds aged just 15 years and 234 days, making him the youngest player in Cardiff's history as he appeared in a Welsh derby against Newport in the EFL Trophy.
"Axel has spent his whole career with Cardiff so far, and has represented Wales at under-15s and under-16s levels, and is also eligible to represent Poland at international level.
"With a mix of youth and international experience under his belt, Axel moves to north London looking to continue his development at the Sobha Realty Training Centre.
"Everyone at Arsenal wishes Axel luck as he begins his Arsenal career."