Ornstein reveals Arsenal have tied down elite teen talent seen as next Yamal
Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement with highly-rated teenager Max Dowman to sign a scholarship contract once he turns 17.
According to The Athletic, the club has finalised terms to keep the 15-year-old midfielder at Hale End, with plans already in place for a professional deal when he becomes eligible.
Dowman is regarded as one of the brightest young players in the country. Arsenal’s academy staff view him as an exceptional talent with huge potential, and the club have moved swiftly to secure his long-term future.
His displays have impressed senior players at the club, with Cristhian Mosquera even comparing him to Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal.
He will continue his development within the youth setup before signing his scholarship contract.
The teenager could have joined another club for more money, but his decision was driven by loyalty and family ties.
Dowman and his family are lifelong Arsenal supporters, and his father played a key role during negotiations.
His commitment to remain at the Emirates reflects both his passion for the club and his belief in Arsenal’s pathway for young players.
Arsenal’s proud record of developing youth talents
The Gunners have built a strong reputation for nurturing academy players who progress into the senior squad.
Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly are among the notable names who came through the ranks and established themselves in the first team.
Dowman is seen as the next in line to follow that route, with coaches at Hale End eager to oversee his rise.
Dowman made history last season when he became Arsenal’s second-youngest player, featuring against Leeds United in the Premier League. Only Nwaneri made his debut at a younger age.
The young midfielder also travelled with the senior team for the club’s pre-season tour in Singapore and has already made three appearances for the first team this season.
Dowman has also impressed at the international level.
He represented England’s Under-17 side at the 2025 European Championship, starting every match in the competition.
His progress has continued with a recent call-up to the Under-19 squad, where he scored in a game against Wales earlier this month.
His new scholarship will run for two years, giving Arsenal control over his development until he is eligible to sign a professional contract on his 17th birthday.
That agreement can be pre-signed once he turns 16 on December 31, ensuring that his future remains firmly tied to the club.
Dowman’s decision to commit to Arsenal, despite strong interest from several top European sides, is viewed as a significant success for the Gunners’ academy project.
The club’s efforts to retain one of England’s most sought-after prospects underline their determination to keep developing elite young talents in north London.
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