Arsenal add winger Scanlon to Academy ranks

Arsenal have confirmed the arrival of James Scanlon from Manchester United, the latest in a series of signings designed “to strengthen our Academy sides”.

The 19-year-old winger, capped 24 times by Gibraltar, came through the ranks at Derby County before moving to Old Trafford in 2021. He was a key member of the under-18 side that won three trophies in 2023/24 and later established himself as a regular for the under-21s.

Scanlon spent the second half of last season on loan at League Two side Swindon Town, where he made six appearances and scored once.

Explaining his decision to move to the Emirates, the teenager 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.

“You can see that everyone here is hungrier for more, hungrier to get better, and I think that’s something I believe I can add to and want to be a part of as well.

“I’m a creative player; I like to score goals and assist, so hopefully I can excite players who watch me, and that’s what I’m here to do really.”

Scanlon’s arrival was confirmed 24 hours after that of Igor Tyjon from Blackburn Rovers, with fellow Manchester United youngster Habeeb Ogunneye expected to follow in due course.

After weeks of speculation, it also looks as though a deal for 17-year-old Georgian prospect Andria Bartishvili is close to being finalised. The transfer could eventually be worth up to €4.5 million to his club Kolkheti-1913, although he won’t be able to join Arsenal until March next year, when he turns 18.

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