Arsenal have reached an agreement to sign 16-year-old midfielder Axel Donczew from Cardiff City, with the player already completing a medical, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Donczew made history for Cardiff in October 2025, becoming the youngest player to represent the Bluebirds’ first team at 15 years and 234 days old, appearing as a substitute against Newport County in the EFL Trophy.
The Welsh teenager, capable of playing in attacking midfield and wide positions, also featured against AFC Wimbledon in December 2025. While the financial details of the transfer were not disclosed, the move signifies Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta’s focus on developing talent for the future. Donczew’s acquisition is not expected to result in immediate first-team involvement, but rather a long-term investment in a promising young player.
Alongside the Donczew deal, Arsenal are actively pursuing Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. Romano reports that the Gunners are “expected to return to the table” next week to resume negotiations. Arteta views Guimaraes as a “top priority” and is pushing for his signature, with personal terms already agreed with the player.
Negotiations with Newcastle are anticipated to be challenging, though Arsenal are prepared to improve upon a previously reported £70 million offer. Newcastle’s recent signing of Bamba in midfield, coupled with the departure of Sandro Tonali, may influence their willingness to part with Guimaraes. Romano notes that Arsenal are “ready to go strong” for Guimaraes, but the final outcome hinges on reaching an agreement with Newcastle. The situation is further complicated by other clubs’ interest in midfielders across Europe, creating a dynamic transfer market.
