Arsenal has officially acquired Tommy Setford from Ajax, with the transfer fee reportedly around €1 million plus add-ons. The 18-year-old goalkeeper enhances the academy’s goalkeeping options.
Setford, born and raised in Holland, represents England at the youth level. He was part of the under-17 squad for last year’s World Cup in Indonesia, alongside Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Although Setford currently doesn’t qualify as a homegrown player, he can achieve this status if he spends three years with an FA club before the end of the season in which he turns 21. His contract with Arsenal is expected to last for four years.
The Arsenal Academy celebrated his signing on social media, expressing their delight at welcoming the English youth international goalkeeper to the academy.
Following the departure of five youth team goalkeepers at the end of June, Setford is the third keeper to join Arsenal since the start of the month. David Raya’s permanent move from Brentford and the recruitment of Lucas Nygaard for the Academy have already bolstered the squad.
In his initial interview with the club, Setford expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating his eagerness to get started. He mentioned his familiarity with Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, noting that they are good friends from previous camps.
Setford is excited to learn new things next season and aims to push himself to a higher level. For now, he is focused on integrating with the team and getting to know everyone.
Arsenal may sign two more goalkeepers before the transfer window closes to replace Aaron Ramsdale and Karl Hein. Ramsdale is seeking regular first-team football after being overtaken by Raya, while Hein is in need of a loan.
The Gunners have already had one offer for Wolves’ backup keeper Dan Bentley rejected but have reportedly submitted an improved bid.
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