Arsenal have agreed a deal for Cardiff City's youngest-ever player, Axel Donczew, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the 16-year-old has already undergone a medical. The Wales under-19 international is expected to join the Gunners' academy.
Arsenal Secure Deal for Axel Donczew
Donczew made his debut for Cardiff in October as a second-half substitute during an EFL Trophy match against Newport County, aged 15 years and 234 days. That broke a record set by his teammate Rob Tankiewicz earlier in the same game. Aaron Ramsey had previously held the record for 18 years. Ramsey, who was also the last player Arsenal signed from Cardiff, moved to the Gunners for £7 million in 2018 after 22 appearances for the Bluebirds. Donczew has only made two senior appearances for Cardiff.
Interest in Vinicius Junior Continues
News of Donczew's deal emerged less than 24 hours after Arsenal's interest in Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior was reported. The Brazilian would likely command a record-breaking fee, but his lack of a new contract could allow Real to sell this summer. Jose Mourinho is reportedly reluctant to lose the player.
Donczew's Background and Potential
Donczew has been absent from Cardiff's pre-season activities following interest from Premier League clubs, including Fulham. He last played for Cardiff in December, making a substitute appearance in an EFL Trophy tie against Wimbledon. He was also in the matchday squad for the EFL Cup quarter-final against Chelsea but did not feature.
Cardiff head coach Brian Barry-Murphy praised Donczew, saying: 'I think if they're good enough, and he clearly is, then they're old enough for us with Axel.' He described the teenager as a 'brilliant player'. Donczew has represented Wales from under-15 level and currently plays for the under-19s. He also holds eligibility for Poland. Wales senior head coach Craig Bellamy is said to be an admirer of the youngster.
Under-21s coach Darren Purse told WalesOnline: 'I think Axel came into fruition because I think Craig Bellamy really liked him as an Under-16 playing for Wales. I think that came through him and the gaffer's (Barry-Murphy) conversations.' Donczew is represented by CAA Stellar, which also represents two current Arsenal academy players: Angelinou Pedro and Theo Julienne.
