by Lewis Ambrose

Arsenal are yet to confirm the signing of Donyell Malen, but Ajax have already suggested they are disappointed to lose the young forward.

Malen is just 16 years old and appears to have chosen to continue his development at Arsenal, rather than staying with the Ajax Academy. The highly-rated teenager posted a photo of himself and his agent, Mino Raiola, signing a contract with Dick Law stood behind them but quickly deleted it from his Instagram account.

Donyell Malen with agent Mino Raiola (left) and Dick Law (middle).
Donyell Malen at Arsenal with agent Mino Raiola (left) and Dick Law (middle).

Neither club has confirmed the deal but Wim Jonk, head of the Ajax Academy, has commented on Malen’s decision to leave.

“We have made ​​him an excellent offer and presented a clear development plan,” Jonk said. “If the player still makes another choice, which is disappointing.”

Jonk played with Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp, who is now assistant manager at the Dutch giants, at both Ajax and Internazionale but they could not convince Malen to stay despite guaranteeing opportunities at the club.

“The potential is clear and the opportunities will come with Ajax.

“We are continuing with the guys who do believe in it.”

Clearly Malen believes he would benefit from a move to Arsenal at this early stage in his career and we can only hope that he ends up proving himself right.