Arsenal have finalized the acquisition of Tommy Setford from Ajax for a fee approximately around โฌ1 million plus additional payments. The 18-year-old goalkeeper enhances the options in the club’s youth academy.
Setford, originally from the Netherlands, represents England at the youth level and was part of the under-17 squad that participated in last yearโs World Cup in Indonesia alongside Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Currently, Setford does not qualify as a homegrown player, but he can attain that status by spending three years with an FA-affiliated club before the end of the season in which he turns 21. His contract with Arsenal is reportedly set for four years.
We are pleased to announce the addition of the English youth international goalkeeper to our academy.
Following the departure of five youth team goalkeepers at the end of June, Setford becomes the third goalkeeper to join the club since the beginning of the month. David Raya completed his permanent transfer from Brentford, and Lucas Nygaard was also brought into the Academy.
In his inaugural interview with the club, he expressed his gratitude: โI want to extend my thanks to Arsenal for this opportunity. I’m eager to get started and make an impact from the outset.โ
โI already know Ethan [Nwnaeri] and Myles [Lewis-Skelly] well. Theyโre great guys, and weโve had some good times together. I caught up with them briefly for a meet and greet!
Looking ahead to next season, Iโm excited to learn and elevate my game to new heights. Right now, itโs crucial for me to integrate into the group and get to know everyone.โ
Arsenal may sign two more goalkeepers before the transfer window closes, aiming to replace Aaron Ramsdale, who seeks regular first-team football after losing his spot to Raya, and Karl Hein, who is likely to go out on loan.
The Gunners had one offer for Wolvesโ backup goalkeeper Dan Bentley turned down, but reports suggest an improved bid has been submitted.
