Arsenal have confirmed the signing of teenage striker Igor Tyjon from Blackburn. The 18-year-old is understood to have moved to north London for an initial fee of around £1million, with a potential £2m in add-ons.
Long pursuit ends with move to Emirates
The Gunners had made several attempts to sign Tyjon in previous transfer windows, but Blackburn initially held firm and this summer extended his scholarship terms. However, the striker rejected a professional contract offer at Ewood Park in favour of signing for Arsenal.
"It feels amazing," Tyjon said. "I've waited a long time for this and I can't wait to get started."
"It's a dream come true for [my family] as well, it's always a nice feeling when you make your family happy, so I'm buzzing for them as well."
"Who doesn't want to join the champions? I can't wait to be part of the team."
Pathway to first team
Tyjon will initially join up with Arsenal's Under-21s but is set to feature in first-team training at points this season. He will also push for involvement in Mikel Arteta's senior squad and has been handed the No64 shirt.
Tyjon made his professional debut for Blackburn in the Championship as a 16-year-old. The teenager has also been capped through the England age groups, scoring three goals in five appearances so far for the U18s and playing at last year's U17 World Cup in Qatar.
"Going from Under-21s to first-team football is two different things," Tyjon said. "I think with the fans, with the pressure, it's kind of helped me along the way."
"The support has always helped me out at games, just them believing in me, supporting me really helps me out. I'm taking that with me to Arsenal."
Familiar faces and further deals
Tyjon is already familiar with a number of players at Arsenal, adding: "I know a couple of the [Arsenal] boys from international duties."
"I know Jack Porter, Eli [Elijah Upson], Theo [Julienne], Max [Dowman] and I know a couple of the staff as well, so it's good to link up."
Manchester United youngsters Habeeb Ogunneye and James Scanlon are also set to join Arsenal, who await the green light to make a big-money move for wantaway Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez before Tuesday's transfer deadline.
