Arsenal have agreed a deal to sign highly rated centre-back Elijah Upson after the teenager rejected a professional contract with Tottenham Hotspur.
The 18-year-old will cross the north London divide after spending 11 years in Tottenham’s academy.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Upson has signed an agreement to join Arsenal on a long-term deal. An official announcement is expected shortly.
Tottenham confirmed in June that the defender would leave after turning down their contract offer. Spurs will still be entitled to training compensation because of Upson’s age.
Arsenal win major race for Tottenham talent
Upson had attracted interest from several leading clubs in England and Europe before choosing Arsenal.
The centre-back visited the Gunners’ training facilities at London Colney before making his final decision. He now joins an academy setup undergoing significant changes ahead of the new campaign.
Upson is the son of former Arsenal and England defender Matthew Upson. His father spent six years with the Gunners and represented England at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Elijah has already represented England at Under-18 level. He was also part of the Tottenham squad which won the Under-17 Premier League Cup during the 2024/25 season.
Arsenal have strengthened their academy defence this summer, with Daniel McCarron also arriving from Dungannon Swifts.
Upson will initially aim to establish himself within Arsenal’s development teams. His long-term objective will be to follow the pathway into Mikel Arteta’s senior squad.
Losing a promising player to their closest rivals will frustrate Tottenham. Arsenal, meanwhile, have secured one of the most highly regarded young defenders available this summer.
