Highly-rated defender George Dobson has left Arsenal to sign for London rivals West Ham United.
The 17-year-old is a boyhood Hammers fan and will now join their youth setup ahead of the new season.
“I am over the moon to have signed and have been a West Ham fan since I was five-years-of-age and this is a surreal moment. Putting pen to paper is a dream come true for me,” he told the West Ham website.
“I had a great ten years with Arsenal and they helped me as a footballer and as a person. But the time is right to move and I cannot wait to get started.
“I give 100 per cent every time I put the shirt on and I will give everything for the team.
“The amount of players who have come through the academy, it was a no-brainer for me. There are lots of opportunities here and you have just got to take them. I know I will have to work hard.
“Terry Westley is a great guy and has shown a lot of interest in me. That is really important for a young person and I am looking forward to working under him.”
The Gunners were very respectful of Dobson’s decision. “Everyone at Arsenal would like to thank George for his contribution to the club and to wish him well with his continued development at West Ham,” a club statement read.
Dobson captained Arsenal’s Under-18s last season and also made a handful of appearances for their Under-19 side in the UEFA Youth League.
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