Cardiff City have confirmed that teenager Axel Donczew has completed his move to Arsenal. The 16-year-old midfielder has signed for the Premier League champions in a deal that had been widely trailed over the summer.
Reports in July indicated that the youngster had already undergone a medical with the Gunners. Donczew had long been considered one of Cardiff's standout academy prospects and became the club's youngest-ever player when he made his senior debut in the EFL Trophy last season.
Cardiff confirm departure
The Bluebirds announced his exit in a short statement, noting that they had offered terms in an attempt to keep him in south Wales.
"Cardiff City FC can confirm that an agreement has been reached for the transfer of Axel Donczew to Arsenal," the statement read. "Axel became our youngest player aged 15 years and 234 days old in October 2025, a record now held by Noah Anyadike."
"The club had offered terms for Donczew to continue his development with the Bluebirds and made efforts to retain the player, but he opted to pursue a move away from the Welsh capital. We wish Axel the best of luck for the future."
Arsenal academy move
Donczew will now link up with Arsenal's academy. The north London club said in their statement: "We’re delighted to announce the signing of 16-year-old midfielder Axel Donczew."
"The young Welshman joins us from Cardiff City as part of our first-year scholarship intake. The player has also signed a pre-contract agreement that will lead to him signing professional terms with us."
Arsenal noted that Donczew made his professional debut for Cardiff aged 15 years and 234 days, appearing in a Welsh derby against Newport in the EFL Trophy. He has represented Wales at under-15s and under-16s levels and is also eligible to play for Poland internationally.
Donczew moves to north London to continue his development at the Sobha Realty Training Centre. Arsenal added: "Everyone at Arsenal wishes Axel luck as he begins his Arsenal career."
