Tottenham Hotspur’s bitter rivals Arsenal have now secured the services of a highly-rated young English centre‑back.
Tottenham Hotspur have not only looked to strengthen their first-team squad this summer but have also continued to bolster their academy ranks.
So far, the Lilywhites have secured the signing of Cole Ramsey after splashing the cash on six senior additions, highlighting their desire to strengthen the club at every level.
However, it now appears they have lost one of their own young talents this summer despite efforts to retain his services.
Fabrizio Romano confirms Elijah Upson swaps Tottenham for Arsenal
According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have managed to poach Tottenham youngster Elijah Upson.
The Gunners are said to have reached an agreement to sign the 18-year-old centre-back despite Spurs‘ attempts to tie him down to a new contract.
Upson rejected Tottenham’s offer and has joined Arsenal on a long-term deal, with an official announcement expected soon.
Romano wrote: “Elijah Upson to Arsenal, here we go! Agreement signed today for 18 year old centre back to join Gunners project. Upson turned down new contract at Spurs to join #AFC for long term, all set to be announced.”
Spurs still have plenty of academy talent
While Tottenham might have lost Upson to their bitter rivals, they still have several highly rated talents in their academy ranks.
In fact, four youngsters have been involved in pre-season training with the first-team squad as Roberto De Zerbi continues to assess the players at his disposal ahead of the new season.
Those players include Luca Williams-Barnett, Harry Byrne, Tye Hall and Rio Kyerematen.
Spurs also managed to snatch one of Arsenal’s highly-rated youngsters earlier this summer after poaching 16-year-old forward Kyran Thompson.
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