Arsenal Football Club are poised to secure the signings of two highly-rated teenage prospects from South America, as part of their long-term strategy to bolster the club's academy ranks.
Gunners Set to Welcome Ecuadorian Duo
According to reports from ESPN, the North London side have agreed a deal to sign 16-year-old Ecuadorian twins Edwin and Holger Quintero. The pair, who currently play for Independiente del Valle, are believed to be in London this week to finalise the details of their move.
This acquisition follows a clear pattern at the Emirates Stadium, where the recruitment team, led by technical director Andrea Berta, is focusing heavily on identifying and securing the world's most promising young talents. The club's successful development of players like Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly from the Hale End academy is a blueprint they are keen to replicate.
A Patient Strategy for Future Success
Due to international transfer rules regarding minors, the Quintero brothers will not officially join Arsenal until 2027, when they turn 18. This demonstrates a patient, forward-thinking approach from the club, investing in potential that may not yield immediate first-team dividends but is crucial for sustainable growth.
The fee for the twins remains undisclosed, but an official announcement is expected soon. Their club, Independiente del Valle, has a formidable reputation for youth development, having previously nurtured current Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie and Chelsea's Moises Caicedo.
Building a South American Pipeline
Arsenal's move for the Quinteros is the latest in a series of investments in young South American talent. The most notable success story is Gabriel Martinelli, signed from Brazilian side Ituano for just £6 million, who has become a star for both club and country.
This strategy extends beyond Ecuador. The Gunners have also already confirmed a pre-agreement to sign Victor Ozhianvuna from Shamrock Rovers, with the Irish youth star also scheduled to arrive in 2027.
This focus on the academy comes at a time when the club's under-21 and under-18 sides have faced challenges. By recruiting elite prospects like the Quintero twins, Arsenal aim to strengthen their youth pipeline to ensure a continuous flow of talent. The ultimate goal is twofold: to produce players for the senior squad and to generate funds through future sales, a cornerstone of the club's financial sustainability under owners KSE.
