Arsenal in danger of losing promising academy prospect Ayden Heaven

Ayden Heaven teenage defender. (Photo credit: Getty Images)

Arsenal risk losing a “remarkable” wonderkid amid interest from top Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City.

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Arsenal are facing a potential setback as they struggle to secure a professional contract with highly-rated academy prospect Ayden Heaven. The 18-year-old defender, who has impressed with his performances for the Gunners’ youth teams, has rejected the club’s latest contract offer. This has opened the door for several top European clubs to express their interest in the talented youngster.

According to TBR Football Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United are all keen on signing Heaven. His versatility as a central defender, left-back, and even a box-to-box midfielder makes him an attractive prospect for these clubs. Heaven’s composed style of play and ability to build attacks from the back have caught the attention of many scouts.

The interest doesn’t stop at the Premier League. Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Borussia Dortmund are also monitoring the situation closely. Napoli, in particular, is looking to bolster their defensive lineup and sees Heaven as a long-term investment. The Italian club’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, has been keeping a close eye on the young defender.

Heaven’s current contract with Arsenal expires in June 2025, and the club is eager to retain him. However, their attempts to convince him to sign a professional deal have so far been unsuccessful. Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has praised Heaven’s potential and believes he could be a key player for the future. The club remains hopeful that they can persuade him to stay, but the growing interest from other clubs complicates the situation.

Losing Heaven would be a significant blow to Arsenal, especially considering their recent struggles to keep academy talents like Omari Hutchison and Amario Cozier Dubbery. The club will need to act swiftly and decisively to ensure they don’t lose another promising young player. For Heaven, the decision will be a crucial one, as it could shape his career and future opportunities.

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