‘I’m buzzing’ – Arsenal announce signing of highly-rated Man Utd attacker
Arsenal have completed the signing of highly-rated winger James Scanlon from Manchester United as the club continue their aggressive recruitment of young talent.
The 19-year-old arrives on a free transfer after completing his medical earlier this week, with Manchester United retaining a 40 per cent sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Scanlon expressed his delight after completing the move and believes Arsenal’s ambition following last season’s Premier League triumph made north London an attractive destination.
“It’s a pleasure to be here, I can’t wait to get started,” Scanlon said. “I think you can see where the club’s at, [it’s] really positive and I think it’s only going to get better.”
The Leicester-born attacker primarily operates as a winger or attacking midfielder and describes himself as a creative player who wants to contribute goals and assists.
Despite his age, Scanlon arrives with significant senior experience after already winning 24 caps for Gibraltar, whom he qualifies to represent through his mother.
He has featured in World Cup qualifying and Nations League matches and became one of the youngest goalscorers in Nations League history when he struck against Liechtenstein aged 17 years and 346 days.
Scanlon also spent the second half of last season on loan at Swindon Town, where he gained valuable experience of senior club football and scored his first professional goal.
His performances at academy level had previously demonstrated his attacking potential, including an impressive 2024/25 campaign in which he scored 14 goals in 14 Under-18 Premier League appearances.
Professional development phase scout Chris Perkins had watched Scanlon closely during his time at Derby County, while Arsenal Under-21 head coach David Horseman worked with him at Manchester United and recommended him to the Gunners.
There are currently no plans for another loan, with Scanlon initially expected to play for Arsenal’s Under-21s while attempting to force his way towards Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s senior squad.
His arrival continues a significant academy recruitment drive that has also seen Arsenal move for several promising youngsters this summer.
Igor Tyjon has arrived from Blackburn Rovers, while Arsenal have also pursued Manchester United defender Habeeb Ogunneye and secured a future deal for highly-rated Georgian prospect Andria Bartishvili.
For Scanlon, however, the immediate objective is straightforward.
The Gibraltar international wants to establish himself quickly in north London and believes his senior experience can help him take another step towards Premier League football.
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