By Olaitan Ibrahim
Arsenal have finalized a deal to sign 17-year-old striker Will Wright from Salford City for approximately £200,000, outpacing competition from Liverpool and other Premier League clubs.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano announced on X that documents are being prepared, with Arsenal emerging victorious in the race for the highly-rated forward despite interest from multiple teams.
Wright, a 6ft 3in talent from Preston, has drawn attention for his prolific scoring, netting over 50 goals for Salford City’s youth and reserve teams last season and adding four goals in three pre-season friendlies.
He made his senior debut against Manchester City in the FA Cup and has four first-team appearances under Salford manager Karl Robinson.
“I feel great, I’m ready. For all of us, it’s a fantastic opportunity,” Wright said after his pre-season performances, according to Mail Sport.
Arsenal’s offer, which includes performance-based add-ons, surpassed Liverpool’s £100,000 bid, securing the teenager’s signature. Personal terms are still under negotiation, with discussions expected to conclude soon.
The Gunners plan to integrate Wright gradually, splitting his time between their U18 and U21 squads, with potential first-team exposure under manager Mikel Arteta.
The move aligns with Arsenal’s strategy of investing in young talent, led by academy manager Per Mertesacker, to bolster their Hale End academy and UEFA Youth League squads.
The signing comes amid Arsenal’s active transfer window, with recent acquisitions including midfielder Martin Zubimendi, Brentford’s Christian Norgaard, Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga, and winger Noni Madueke.
The club is also close to finalizing a £55 million deal for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres, signaling a focus on strengthening their attack after finishing second in the Premier League last season.