Arsenal are set to sign teenage Georgian midfielder Andria Bartishvili, with a medical already completed. The 17-year-old will formally join the Premier League club next summer when he turns 18, according to a report from ESPN Soccer this week.
This news comes as Mikel Arteta's side sits second in the Premier League table with six points from two wins, having scored four goals without conceding. Their next challenge is a home fixture against Chelsea on September 6th. The club is also pushing to secure the long-term futures of its manager and several star players.
Who is Arsenal's new signing Andria Bartishvili?
Andria Bartishvili is a 17-year-old midfielder from Georgia who has already gained significant senior experience. He has made 44 appearances across Georgia's first and second divisions, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years. Bartishvili has also featured for Georgia's under-21 national team, highlighting his standing as one of the country's top young prospects. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said, "Arsenal are set to sign teenage Georgian midfielder Andria Bartishvili." The player is expected to sign his contract with Arsenal soon, though his official arrival is scheduled for the summer of 2027.
Which key contracts are Arsenal working on?
Alongside securing new talent, Arsenal are focused on retaining their existing core. The club is actively working on new deals for captain Martin Ødegaard, midfielder Declan Rice, and defender Jurriën Timber. All three players currently have two years remaining on their contracts. Manager Mikel Arteta is also close to extending his stay at the Emirates. Talks are accelerating, with a full agreement on Arteta's new contract expected before the September international break. This dual focus on incoming talent and securing key personnel shows a strategy for sustained success, which fans can track through the club's official squad list.
How does this fit with Arsenal's current situation?
The pursuit of future talent occurs alongside a strong start to the 2026-27 campaign. Arsenal's perfect record of two wins from two games has them positioned near the top of the standings. However, the squad is managing some injury concerns. Defender Jurriën Timber is currently sidelined, alongside William Saliba and summer signing Cristhian Mosquera. This context makes the long-term planning for players like Bartishvili, and the contract security for current stars, part of a broader squad-building vision. The immediate focus, however, shifts to maintaining their form against Chelsea.
What other transfer news is circulating?
The wider transfer market remains active with several stories involving Premier League clubs. Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly monitoring 18-year-old Wolves striker and Portugal U21 international Mateus Mane. Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana, who helped them win the Europa League last season, has agreed a new contract until 2031 but is set to miss a large part of the campaign with an ACL injury. Bayern Munich may insert a 'very, very high' release clause into Michael Olise's contract extension, with Liverpool and Real Madrid named as potential suitors. Atlético Madrid forward Alex Baena is a target for Manchester City, Newcastle, and Aston Villa, though a January exit is considered unlikely. West Ham's Edson Alvarez, a Mexico international, is considering a move away from the London Stadium but does not want a return to Club America. Everton failed with a £40 million offer for West Ham's Taty Castellanos and saw a late move for Folarin Balogun fall through. Arsenal's next match is at home against Chelsea on September 6, 2026.
