Young Nigerian defender Ryan Alebiosu has signed his first professional contract with Arsenal.
Announcing the deal, the FA Cup champions said that the 18-year-old first joined Arsenal Academy at the age of seven. The Islington-born Gunner joined the team’s pre-academy before signing as an under-9, developing through the ranks in the same group as fellow Academy graduate, Bukayo Saka.
A versatile and energetic right-back who can also play in midfield, Ryan made 21 league appearances for the under-18s last term and made his debut for the under-23s against Liverpool in January.
Congratulations on signing your first professional contract, Ryan 👏#ArsenalAcademy https://t.co/OyXBt9n49P
— Arsenal Academy (@ArsenalAcademy) August 24, 2020
Arsenal have seen young players from the academy flourish in recent years with the likes of Alex Iwobi, Ainsley Maitland Niles, Bukayo Saka, Joe Willock, Eddie Nketiah, Emile Smith Rowe and others.
Earlier this month, the club also announced the capture of another young Nigerian midfielder Tim Akinola on a free transfer from Huddersfield Town.
The North Londoners are in need a right back with rumours linking first choice Hector Bellerin to PSG and Maitland Niles on the verge of joining Wolves.
The progress of Saka and others will give the young Nigerian the impetus to push for a first team inclusion in the coming years.
Alebiosu is eligible to represent both the Three Lions of England and the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the international stage.
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