Arsenal confirm signing of young Welsh midfielder

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of young Welsh midfielder Axel Donczew from League One side Cardiff City.

The Gunners have signed plenty of emerging talents this summer. They recently confirmed the arrivals of James Scanlon and Habeeb Ogunneye from rivals Manchester United.

16-year-old midfielder Donczew has become another addition to the Gunners’ youth set-up. He will be part of the first-year scholarship intake before securing a professional deal.

The youngster, who is also eligible to represent Poland, has already signed a pre-contract agreement that will lead to a professional contract once he turns 17 on February 6.

Arsenal continue youth recruitment

Donczew is regarded as one of the best upcoming Welsh talents. He became the youngest player to represent Cardiff after making his debut at 15 years and 234 days in the EFL Trophy last season.

The youngster can comfortably play as a left winger or an attacking midfielder. He is likely to start with the Under 18s, and his progress could determine whether he is fast-tracked to the Under 21s.

Arsenal have rarely done business with Cardiff. Aaron Ramsey was the last player to make the switch as a 17-year-old in 2008. He went on to have a brilliant career, making 369 appearances and winning three FA Cups.

Donczew broke Ramsey’s long-standing record as Cardiff’s youngest debutant, and it remains to be seen whether he can follow the career trajectory of the Welsh legend to make a name for himself at the English champions.

Arsenal are still expected to make more additions to their academy. Georgian wonderkid Andria Bartishvili is poised for his medical next week, but he won’t be able to sign a professional contract until he turns 18 in March.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

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