Arsenal have finally secured a deal for long-time attacking target Igor Tyjon after a breakthrough in negotiations with Blackburn.
The Gunners had attempted to reach an agreement with the Championship club for the striker over the last few transfer windows, but on each occasion were unsuccessful. That changed this summer when a breakthrough was made.
Tyjon underwent a medical last week after the two clubs agreed a deal worth an initial £1million, with a further £2m in potential add-ons.
Tyjon to join Under-21s
The 18-year-old will initially join up with Arsenal's Under-21s side, but he will also be training with the first team at times. There is a belief that Tyjon could feature for Mikel Arteta's side at some stage this season, though that will likely depend on their progress in the cup competitions.
Arsenal have made a real push to strengthen at academy level in recent windows and that has kicked on this summer. Elijah Upson arrived after leaving Tottenham, while Axel Donczew is set to join from Cardiff. Arsenal are also expected to wrap up the double signing of James Scanlon and Habeeb Ogunneye from Manchester United.
Who is Igor Tyjon?
Tyjon has been on Arsenal's radar for more than a year, with the club particularly keen to improve their striker options in the academy. He was a youth prospect at Rochdale before joining Blackburn's academy in the summer of 2023.
Tyjon scored on his debut for the U21s as a 15-year-old and was named on the bench for the first team by the end of that season. The teenager signed a two-year scholarship contract in 2024 and has since made three first-team appearances.
In 33 games for the U21s, Tyjon scored 13 goals. Those matches came primarily with him leading the line, but he has also been used as a winger and as a No10.
Both of Tyjon's parents are Polish and he represented Poland at U16 level, but has since been capped by England and went to the U17 World Cup last season.
Deal expected to be made official
Blackburn were keen for Tyjon to sign a professional contract but he made it clear he had no intention of doing so. The club instead extended his scholarship terms, which were due to expire this summer, for a third year.
Arsenal remained keen on pursuing Tyjon and had to increase their offer, having previously had bids worth around £1m rejected. An agreement has now been reached and his arrival is expected to be made official this week.
