Arsenal sign Cardiff City record-breaker Axel Donczew in latest academy spree

Arsenal have completed the signing of Cardiff City teenager Axel Donczew, with the Welsh club confirming the deal on Sunday. The 16-year-old made history at Cardiff in October 2025 when he became their youngest-ever player at 15 years and 234 days old — a record since surpassed by Noah Anyadike.

Cardiff’s official statement acknowledged the club had offered Donczew terms to stay but that he chose to pursue a move to North London. “We wish Axel the best of luck for the future,” the club said. Donczew will initially develop within Arsenal’s academy, with the possibility of first-team involvement further down the line.

The signing is the latest in a string of youth acquisitions at the Emirates this summer. Arsenal have also brought in Igor Tyjon from Blackburn Rovers, with the youngster expressing his excitement at the move: “It feels amazing. I’ve waited a long time for this and I can’t wait to get started. Who doesn’t want to join the champions? I can’t wait to be part of the team.”

James Scanlon has arrived from Manchester United, while Vincent Joseph — who left Liverpool at the end of last season — has also joined, with a tribunal set to determine the fee for the 16-year-old. Arsenal are additionally reported to be interested in Manchester United youngster Habeeb Ogunneye.

The academy activity runs alongside a significant first-team overhaul. Piero Hincapie has made his loan move from Bayer Leverkusen permanent, while Bruno Guimaraes, Ezri Konsa, and Christos Tzolis have all been recruited for substantial fees as Arsenal look to defend their Premier League title. The club are also said to be monitoring Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez.