Arsenalhave reacted to the growing interest in their teenage sensationMax Dowmanby reaching an agreement over scholarship forms.
The 15-year-old’s burgeoning reputation was enhanced during the early weeks of the new season when he made his first team debut againstLeeds Unitedin thePremier League.
More lucrative offers may well have been available elsewhere, according to The Athletic, but Dowman, a lifelong Arsenal fan, is steadfast in his determination to continue his rapid development with his boyhood club.
The teenager’s father is reported to have conducted negotiations and a swift and satisfactory resolution has already been reached.
Dowman has committed to Arsenal for two years but once he reaches 16, on December 31, a professional deal can be offered and pre-agreed to take effect on his 17th birthday.
Get personalised updates on Arsenal everyday
Wake up to find news on your club in your inbox every morning with Metro’s Football Newsletter.
Sign up to our newsletterand then select your team in the link we’ll send you so we can get football news tailored to you.
After the blow of losing two emerging young talents inAyden Heavenand Chido Obi toManchester Unitedlast year, confirmation of Arsenal retaining the jewel in their crown will come as a welcome boost.
Dowman’s decision follows the success sporting directorAndrea Bertaenjoyed over the summer when fellow teenage talentsMyles Lewis-Skellyand Ethan Nwaneri also signed new long-term deals.
Following his eye-catching start to the new season, Dowman’s first team opportunities have lessened in recent weeks following the return to fitness of several more senior players.
Mikel Arteta is currently in command of the most complete squad he has had at his disposal over the course of his reign and his meant several more experienced players have been forced to to bide their time.
Lewis-Skelly is one such example with the England international forced to play second fiddle to Riccardo Calafiori so far this term.
The 19-year-old did, however, give a timely reminder of his qualities in the midweek win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
Indeed, it was his surging run and expertly weighted pass that allowed Gabriel Martinelli the chance to double his side’s lead with the second goal in what was an eventual 4-0 rout.
‘If you look at it from what he’s done from December last year to now, at his age, at this level, it’s incredible,’ said Mikel Arteta after the game.
‘But I said it before, he’s been really focused, really humble, and really good. When that happens and you have to play after, you are ready, and I thought he was really good today.’
