Arsenal have completed the ”signing” of young Barcelona defender, Joel Lopez.
The 16-year-old Spaniard rejected Barcelona’s new offer and became the latest youngster to leave the club’s famed La Masia academy
Lopez who confirmed the switch on his instagram page, signed a scholarship deal with Arsenal pending when he’ll be of age to sign professional terms.
Reports have it that Raul Sanllehi, Arsenal’s head of football relations and former director of football in Barcelona, was the mastermind behind the switch of the youngster
The teenage star followed in the footsteps of Cesc Fabregas, Fran Merida and Hector Bellerin, with 21-year-old centre-half Julio Pleguezuelo the most recent addition from the Barcelona ranks.
A message on his Instagram page reads, “Joel Lopez, left back from Barcelona, has rejected a contact from Barcelona and decided to join Arsenal.
“Joel is only 16 years old and highly rated in Barcelona. Hopefully he’ll be playing for the first team soon!”
Football observers have noted the trend of Arsenal poaching Barcelona youngsters while the Spanish club sign Arsenals already made super stars if they wish.