Arsenal are set to confirm the signing of Kostas Pileas on a permanent basis following a successful trial period with the Gunners.
At just 16 years of age, Pileas has performed with the Arsenal academy playing in the left-back position, but can also be utilised in the centre of defence as well.
According to a report by Jeorge Bird, the deal to bring in the Cyprus youth international will be confirmed soon, and Pileas is expected to sign when the summer transfer window officially opens on July 1st.
Pileas caught the eye of Arsene Wenger during a friendly against MK Dons, where he played one of his best games for the Gunners, managing to get on the scoresheet in the process.
Initially the defender will link up with the Under 18’s squad as part of the Gunners’ scholarship programme, but he will then be granted the chance to sign professional terms once he turns 17 in December.
Arsene Wenger has been heavily criticised in the past for not having the right depth in defensive areas, which has forced the likes of Nacho Monreal and Matthieu Debuchy to play out of position earlier on this season.
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So the signing of Pileas could be a step in the right direction for Arsenal fans, who will be crying out for some defensive talent coming through the ranks in years to come.
Arsenal are reportedly also interested in English duo Joe Gomez and Ben Chilwell, although it is thought these two would command significant fees.
Arsenal are eyeing additions to their youth team over the summer so that they have strength in depth within their youth ranks, with French duo Yassin Fortune and Jeff Reine-Adelaide also set to join the club in the coming months.
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