Date: 3rd May 2022 at 5:00pm
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Arsenal have reportedly tied down young striker Khayon Edwards to a new long-term deal despite interest from a number of elite clubs across Europe.

THE LOWDOWN: PROLIFIC SEASON

The 18-year-old has enjoyed a prolific season at U18 level for the Gunners this term, with 16 goals and five assists in 16 U18 Premier League games.

Edwards has also made the step-up to Premier League 2 football amid his rapid development and struck his first goal for the U23s in a 1-1 draw with West Ham United back in January.

The youngster’s season was unfortunately cut short due to injury, but his performances still caught the eye of plenty of clubs, who were keeping tabs on the wonderkid.
The forward was on scholarship terms with Arsenal that were due to reach an end imminently, but according to reports, the Gunners have moved swiftly to secure his long-term future at the Emirates.

THE LATEST: NEW CONTRACT

The 18-year-old was attracting rivals Chelsea and fellow Premier League outfit Brighton, while there was also interest from clubs abroad.

But according to The Athletic, Arsenal have now managed to get Edwards to sign a new contract.

His new deal will last until 2025, but he will not yet be a part of their first-team squad, nor will he go out on loan. Instead, he will continue his development with their impressive U23s setup.

THE VERDICT: STRIKER VOID

At senior level, meanwhile, doubts remain over the shape of Arsenal’s frontline.

Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out of contract at the end of the season.

If both leave, there will be a void for coach Mikel Arteta to fill. With that in mind, the club must work to avoid similar situations in the future with better planning ahead.

The Gunners also have Folarin Balogun and Tyreece John-Jules developing out on loan.

Now, Edwards could be the next young attacker on the conveyor belt for them to nurture for years to come.

AND in other news, the Gunners are interested in Barcelona loanee Philippe Coutinho

 

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