According to The Athletic, Premier League champions Arsenal are close to signing 16-year-old Cardiff City forward Axel Donczew on a permanent deal after a record-breaking campaign in the Championship last season.

Donczew's move to North London is expected to be part of a long-term development plan and he could become the Gunners' third signing of the summer.

The Athletic also reports that the deal is nearing completion with official contact between Arsenal and Cardiff City initiated but no agreement reached.

Mikel Arteta's side reportedly consider the Welsh youngster an alternative for Jeremy Monga who left Leicester City for Manchester City this summer.

Donczew announced himself in English football in October 2025 after coming off the bench in an EFL Trophy game to become the youngest player to feature for the Bluebirds at age 15 years and 234 days.

How Did Axel Donczew Perform For Cardiff City In 2025-26 Season?

The 16-year-old only managed to played two games for Cardiff City first-team in the 2025-26.

Donczew's first appearance with the Bluebirds' senior team was as a second-half substitute against Newport County in October in the EFL Trophy.

He saw 26 minutes of action in the game and he rewarded with another substitute appearance in the same competition in December against AFC Wimbledon.

The youngster did not make into Cardiff City's first-team selection since December but he has been a regular player for Wales U19 team and his most recent appearance was against Hungary U19 in March.

The Connection Between Arsenal And Cardiff City's Academy

Arsenal and Cardiff City share history in transfers, with former players swapping London for Cardiff.

Before Donczew's record-breaking night with Cardiff City in October 2025, former Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey was Cardiff City's youngest player at age 16 years and 124 days.

Ramsey left the Cardiff City Stadium at age 17 to join Arsenal and he went on to play over 260 games for the Gunners over 11 years.

For Donczew, he was awarded Cardiff City's Academy Player of the Season in April 2026, an award that underscores his potential for the future.

Arsenal's Summer Transfer Business So Far

Arsenal have been relatively active in this summer transfer window with two confirmed arrivals.

The Gunners announced the return of Christos Tzolis to the Premier League after completing a £34 million deal for the former Norwich City winger from Club Brugge.

Earlier this month, French goalkeeper Illan Meslier completed a free transfer from Leeds United to the Emirates Stadium.

The North London club is still expected to do more transfer business with Piero Hincapie now tied to a permanent contract after a successful loan stint.

They are also reportedly active in their pursuit of Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes despite having offers rejected by Newcastle United.