Who are the next big things to come out of Arsenal’s youth academy? Here’s three lesser known players who may be ready for the step up next season:
1. Chuba Akpom
A prominent scorer at under 21 level for Arsenal, lively forward Chuba Akpom will be looking to have a big impact in the first-team next season. After impressive loan spells out at Coventry and Brentford last term, the 18-year old powerhouse could be set for a breakthrough campaign. The Gunners, even after the arrival of Alexis Sanchez, are still relatively short of out-and-out strikers and Akpom could be the man to lead the line when Giroud is not fit.
Akpom offers a huge physical presence across the front-line but also has extremely quick feet and a good eye for goal. In all competitions last season for the Arsenal youth sides and loan spells out at Brentford and Coventry the youngster notched up 23 goals in 47 appearances. He is a dynamic forward, and one who would suit Arsenal’s style of play perfectly. A loan spell to a Championship club may be more of a realistic option for the 14/15 campaign, but with Arsenal’s lack of depth up-front Akpom may be given more of a chance to impress. Use the navigation below to see the other two youngsters to watch this season.