Barcelona wonderkid Joel Lopez has confirmed via his Instagram page that he is leaving the Catalan club, amid growing speculation that he is to sign for Arsenal.
The 15-year-old left-back has been playing for Barcelona’s Cadeta A side and was offered a new deal with them this summer, but it seems the youngster has decided his future lies elsewhere, and could potentially sign schoolboy terms with the Gunners before agreeing to a professional deal when he turns 16 next year.
Posting on his Instagram page, Lopez said: “The day has come to say goodbye to what has been my home these last 7 years. Thanks to Barcelona, it will be the club that I always carry in my heart for wonderful moments that I have lived with my friends, coaches, delegates, executives.
“Magnificent people who have made me feel welcome from the first day.
“It was a difficult decision but after contemplating it with my family I made the decision to go and start a new stage as a footballer with great enthusiasm.
“Thanks to all who have been there always Visca Barca!”
If Arsenal pull the deal off, he will follow a number of young Barcelona stars who have made their way to the Gunners to help their development. It’s a star we probably won’t hear too much about for a few years, but certainly one to watch.