Arsenal have officially announced the signing of 18-year-old goalkeeper Tommy Setford from Ajax for a fee reported to be around €1 million, with additional add-ons. Setford’s arrival will enhance the goalkeeping options in Arsenal’s academy.
Setford, born and raised in the Netherlands, represents England at the youth level. He was part of the under-17 squad for last year’s World Cup in Indonesia, where he played alongside fellow Arsenal youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Currently, Setford does not qualify as a homegrown player under FA regulations. However, he will be eligible for homegrown status if he spends three years at an FA-affiliated club before the end of the season in which he turns 21. Reports indicate that Setford has signed a four-year contract with Arsenal, which would cover this requirement.
On July 21, 2024, the Arsenal Academy confirmed Setford’s signing via social media, expressing their excitement about welcoming the English youth international goalkeeper to their ranks.
Setford’s arrival comes after the departure of five youth team goalkeepers at the end of June. He is the third goalkeeper to join Arsenal this month, following David Raya’s permanent move from Brentford and the recruitment of Lucas Nygaard for the Academy.
In his first interview as an Arsenal player, Setford expressed his gratitude to the club and shared his eagerness to start his journey. He mentioned his familiarity with Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, stating that he is excited to reunite with them and integrate into the group. Setford also emphasized his desire to develop further and challenge himself in the upcoming season.
Arsenal’s goalkeeping situation remains in flux, with the possibility of two more signings before the transfer window closes. Aaron Ramsdale, who has lost his starting position to Raya, is reportedly seeking regular first-team football, while Karl Hein is likely to go out on loan.
Arsenal has already had an initial bid rejected for Wolves’ back-up goalkeeper Dan Bentley, but reports suggest that the club has submitted an improved offer as they look to strengthen their goalkeeping department further.
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