Arsenal secure scholarship for 15-year-old Dowman

Arsenal have secured scholarship terms with 15 year old midfielder Max Dowman, the club announced on Thursday, tying the teenager to the north London side as he continues a rapid rise through their academy. Dowman, who made his first team debut on August 23 against Leeds United, will begin his scholarship next season and will be eligible to sign a professional contract when he turns 17.

The midfielder, who made his Premier League debut at 15 years and 235 days and became the second youngest player to appear in the competition, has already made three first team appearances this season. He won a late penalty in the Leeds match and has featured in league and cup fixtures, while also scoring twice in two Premier League 2 appearances. Dowman has trained with Arsenal’s first team since he was 14 and was included on the club’s Champions League squad list for the campaign.

Club officials said the scholarship will take effect when Dowman turns 16 at the end of December and will run for two years. A professional contract can be offered and preagreed to take effect on his 17th birthday. Arsenal have moved to formalize his status amid reported interest from other top clubs in England and...