Arsenal expected to move for Tottenham gem Elijah Upson after exit decision

Arsenal are expected to move for a ‘special’ Tottenham gem who has decided to quit their north London rivals, according to reports.

The Gunners’ summer recruitment drive hasn’t just focused on big-name first-team additions, but also rising stars of the future.

Andrea Berta and co are continuing to target some of the brightest young talents available as they look to strengthen the academy pipeline for the years ahead.

One player who has featured a lot in recent discussions is Leicester City teenager Jeremy Monga.

Arsenal have already made a serious effort to sign the highly-rated youngster and remain interested despite seeing an opening proposal knocked back.

The winger is regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in English football and has attracted attention from several leading clubs, but Mikel Arteta‘s side are leading the charge.

Alongside Monga, Arsenal have also been working on a move for Georgian talent Andria Bartishvili.

Reports have suggested the Gunners are keen to secure the teenager’s future before rival clubs intensify their interest, with talks ongoing to sign the 17-year-old who’s been likened to PSG superstar Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Arteta’s champions of England have enjoyed considerable success developing young talent in recent years, and they’re not stopping now.

That reputation has become an important selling point when Arsenal approach emerging stars and their representatives, and yet another promising youngster has emerged as a target.

Arsenal expected to move for wantaway Tottenham teenager Elijah Upson

According to ESPN journalist James Olley, Arsenal are expected to move for Tottenham prospect Elijah Upson.

The 18-year-old is set to leave Spurs when his scholarship contract expires at the end of June after rejecting a professional contract at Hotspur Way.

His decision to leave has created an opportunity that Arsenal are looking to explore.

The teenager, son of former England defender Matthew Upon, is understood to be highly regarded despite not making a senior appearance at Tottenham.

The young defender has impressed at youth level and is viewed as a player with significant potential, with football talent scout Jacek Kulig calling him part of a “special generation” in Spurs’ youth ranks.

The ESPN report indicates Arsenal are among the clubs expected to make a move once his departure from Tottenham becomes official.

The interest in Upson also highlights how active Arsenal have really become in the youth market.

While much attention remains focused on potential senior signings, yet more significant work is taking place behind the scenes to strengthen the club’s long-term future.