Highly-rated right-back Reuell Walters has put pen to paper on professional terms at Arsenal after breaking into the club’s Under-23 on a regular basis – and both Jack Wilshere, and Tottenham talent Dane Scarlett, have reacted.
Walters has been handed professional terms just two months after turning 17 – when a player can agree a pro contract. It comes after a brilliant 2021-22 campaign so far, in which he is becoming a recognised part of the 23’s.
Ahead of the curve, the two-time England Under-18 star has featured 10 times in Arsenal’s second string this season. Indeed, Walters has started and finished the 23’s last five Premier League 2 matches under Kevin Betsy.
He has also featured in four EFL Trophy matches, and seven Under-18 Premier League matches – as well as an FA Youth Cup match. He posted on Instagram, underlining his delight to have penned a professional deal.
Wilshere, Scarlett react as Walters puts pen to paper on Arsenal deal
Walters will now be aiming to remain a regular in Arsenal’s reserve side over the next season and a half – with a view to breaking into the first team. Arsenal look good to qualify for Europe this season, and that could help.
Whether that is Champions League, Europa League or perhaps most beneficially – for Walters – the Conference League, the more games means more rotation. It might see him earn a chance to make his pro debut.
He does have plenty of competition ahead of him, with Takehiro Tomiyasu and Cedric Soares rotating of late. Ainsley Maitland-Niles remains on the books and Nuno Tavares can play there. Wilshere and Scarlett reacted.
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