Arsenal are closing in on a deal for the Chelsea youngster Ryan McAidoo (Picture: Getty)
Arsenal have reportedly tabled a proposal to sign academy prospect Ryan McAidoo from Premier League rivals Chelsea.
Despite being only 15 years old, the Blues striker played for the Under-18 side last season and is already signed to an agency founded by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s brother.
His club displays also earned him a call-up to the England Under-17 squad in March where he made two appearances off the bench against Northern Ireland and Hungary.
Despite that, reports suggest that McAidoo is set to leave Chelsea this summer, with Arsenal in pole position to secure his signature despite interest from Manchester City.
No deal has been agreed between the club and player but, according to Fabrizio Romano, an agreement has been proposed from Arsenal.
The deal would see McAidoo join Arsenal’s academy set-up at Hale End which has played a crucial role in developing players for Mikel Arteta’s first team.
Despite McAidoo’s potential arrival, Arsenal do have a fight on their hands to keep one of their most exciting young prospects at the club.
Chido Obi-Martin who scored 32 goals for Arsenal’s various youth sides last season, is still yet to agree terms on a professional deal, with Bayern Munich said to have offered an attractive deal.
At senior level, meanwhile, Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow after Benjamin Sesko opted to commit his future to RB Leipzig.
The Gunners were said to have been in pole position to sign the Slovenia international who has also attracted interest from the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea.
With time on his side, however, the 21-year-old has opted to remain with the Bundesliga club where he will sign a new deal which will contain a gentleman’s agreement over a future potential transfer.
At senior level, Arsenal have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko (Picture: Getty)
‘Even though I didn’t play or score as much in the first half of the season, this phase was very important for me and my development,’ the Slovenian said.
‘I feel a lot of trust and appreciation throughout the club and that is crucial for being able to perform to my full potential. In the second half of the season in particular, I was able to give something back with my goals.
‘We have a team with great potential and a balanced mix of young and experienced players. I’m really looking forward to taking the next steps with this team.’
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