Arsene Wenger will be delighted as it was feared the youngster would definitely be leaving North London.
Young Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom has reportedly signed a new deal at Arsenal, fending off the interest from a quite staggering list of clubs – with Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund the standout names.
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There were doubts the 19 year-old would put pen to paper on a new contract due to a lack of game time in a red and white shirt, and speculation grew that the teenager might seek first team football at another top tier club – which would no doubt leave Arsenal red faced.
However, the BBC have confirmed that the highly regarded youngster has agreed a four and a half year deal with the Gunners, stating that Arsene Wenger has persuaded Akpom to stay by affording him more first team opportunities.
An impressive cameo from the bench at the weekend against Aston Villa was the most recent of those, with the teenager winning a penalty after an enterprising run.
Despite his imposing physique, Akpom boasts a quick turn of pace and excellent technique, and his recent substitute appearances have included some eye-catching step overs.
The Daily Mirror state that Akpom’s contract will be the biggest Arsenal have ever offered to a player of the striker’s age – despite him having yet to score a goal at senior level – as the club are so keen to show faith in a player they believe has a great future ahead of him.
It could also be that the North London side have had to fend off serious interest from other potential suitors with a hefty pay cheque, as an incredible number of clubs were said to be interested in Akpom – Borussia Dortmund, Red Bull Salzburg, Feyenoord, FC Twente, Liverpool Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, and Manchester City all named by the Mirror.
Akpom has been with Arsenal since the age of seven, progressing through their academy to make his first team debut last year in the League Cup loss to Southampton.
He has previously been on loan at Brentford and Coventry City.