Arsenal are weighing a January loan move for teenage attacker Max Dowman, with former England international Emile Heskey suggesting a switch to Celtic or Rangers could be the ideal next step for the 16-year-old's development.
The Gunners' management, including manager Mikel Arteta, will evaluate the best path for Dowman in the coming months. The attacking midfielder, who became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history last season, has made 15 first-team appearances since his debut but has been used primarily as a backup to Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke this term. His only start this season came in the EFL Cup win over Ipswich Town, where he scored twice.
Emile Heskey believes a loan move north of the border could be major. "Max Dowman going out on loan?" Heskey said. He described the teenager as "the real deal" and suggested the physical nature of the Scottish Premiership, combined with regular game-time at one of the Old Firm clubs, would aid his growth.
Arteta has previously outlined a patient, case-by-case approach to Dowman's progression. "We will evaluate every six months where we are and what is the best thing for him to do and then make the right decision," the Arsenal manager said. He added that the decision depends on the player's needs, the squad's requirements, and the quality of minutes available, noting there have been "many cases" of players that age succeeding on loan and others who have not.
Former Rangers defender Alan Hutton also endorsed the idea, stating Dowman is a "top, top talent" with "the world at his feet." He acknowledged the Scottish league's physical challenge but said the opportunity for European football with Celtic or the intensity of Rangers could suit his profile.
Any potential move would have to wait until Dowman turns 17, as he cannot officially go on loan before then. Arsenal, currently second in the Premier League with 12 points from five games, face Leeds United at home this weekend. The club's recent form reads four wins and one loss from their last five matches as they prepare for a busy period.
More detail at The Scotsman Football
