Arsenal have agreed a deal to keep promising youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly at the club, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein.
The 16-year-old, who primarily plays in defensive midfield and central midfield roles, was selected by Gunners boss Mikel Arteta to join up with the first team for their mid-World Cup training camp in Dubai.
He has also represented England at U16 and U17 level, and he was able to gain valuable experience of training alongside senior pros in Dubai. Lewis-Skelly played in the friendly against Lyon during the Dubai Super Cup tournament, appearing as a second-half substitute.
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He put in an impressive performance during this month's 4-2 win over Watford in the FA Youth Cup, earning rave reviews for his display in a lone defensive midfield role.
And at just 16, he has already featured for the Gunners' U21 side this season - with the first team surely the next step for the promising talent.
And according to Ornstein, the club have managed to ward off interest from other clubs in Lewis-Skelly.
Arsenal agree terms with 'exciting' midfielder
Writing in The Athletic, Ornstein has reported that Arsenal have agreed scholarship terms with Lewis-Skelly, with his existing registration due to expire this summer, describing it as 'another significant development'.
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When he turns 17 in September, he will be eligible to sign his first professional contract, although Ornstein does claim that the scholarship terms last for two years.
Whether the club revisits that arrangement upon the player's next birthday remains to be seen, although Arteta will no doubt be delighted that the Gunners are set to retain the services of one of their brightest young talents - described as 'exciting' by Ornstein.
They must now do likewise with 15-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who is reportedly of interest to Manchester City and Chelsea.
Goal claim that both clubs want to sign the youngster before he turns 16 in March, when he would be eligible to sign professional terms with the Gunners.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Premier League