Arsenal Beat Man City To Wonderkid Signing

Arsenal Beat Man City To Wonderkid Signing

Arsenal have reportedly signed French midfielder Ismael Bennacer from AC Arles-Avignon, a deal that looked dead in the water last month amid interest from Premier League rivals Manchester City.

The 18-year-old, is believed to have impressed Arsenal scouts while playing for France’s Under-17s, and the Gunners are said to have beaten City in the race for the youngster, despite the Manchester club offering him a huge contract to join.


L’Equipe, a reliable French media source, says Arsenal have finalised a deal to bring him to the Emirates Stadium.
It’s thought the player will go into the Under-21 squad but could be challenging for a first-team place later in the coming season.

Bennacer is an attacking midfielder, but has the ability to play in a deeper role as well. His creativity is something that has impressed Arsenal, and his instinct at providing the killer pass.

The youngster made several first-team appearances for Arles last season in Ligue 2, scoring 1 goal in the process, but he failed to prevent the side from relegation.

Arsenal are said to be paying around £150,000 in compensation for the player.

If reports are correct, Arsenal look to have signed yet another academy product that will surely go on to shine in years to come.