THE NEW GUNNER GOALKEEPER! Meet Tommy Setford, the 18-year-old sensation taking Arsenal by storm!
Arsenal have confirmed the acquisition of Tommy Setford from Ajax, marking their second goalkeeping addition this summer, yet manager Mikel Arteta remains eager to secure another keeper.
Setford, who honed his skills at Ajax’s renowned academy for a decade, was born in the Netherlands but represents England at the international level. The 18-year-old featured in the under-17 World Cup in Indonesia last year alongside Arsenal’s Ethan Nwnaeri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Setford will initially join Arsenal’s under-21 squad while also training with the first team. His chance for elevation could come soon, with Arthur Okonkwo moving to Wrexham, Karl Hein expected to go on loan, and Aaron Ramsdale potentially seeking regular playing time elsewhere.
Per Mertesacker, Arsenal’s academy manager, expressed excitement about Setford’s potential, emphasizing the club’s commitment to nurturing his development. Setford will integrate with the under-21 academy group and train regularly with the first team goalkeepers.
This signing follows the permanent acquisition of David Raya from Brentford for £30 million. Arsenal also added Danish goalkeeper Lucas Nygaard from FC Nordsjaelland. These moves address the departure of five youth keepers at the end of June.
Arsenal continue to pursue Wolves’ backup keeper, Dan Bentley, despite a rejected £50,000 bid. Reports indicate Arsenal have increased their offer to around £300,000, although Wolves seek closer to £1 million. Arsenal’s goalkeeper coach Inaki Cana, who previously worked with Bentley at Brentford, leads this interest. Bentley, familiar with Arsenal from his youth career, expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
Setford shared his enthusiasm for joining Arsenal and reuniting with former teammates Ethan and Myles. He looks forward to pushing his limits and integrating into the team.
In a farewell message on Instagram, Setford thanked Ajax for over a decade of memories, expressing hope that their paths would cross again in the future.
