Edward Nketiah has been offered his first professional contract with Arsenal at the age of 17.

The striker, who the Gunners picked up after Chelsea released him, refusing to give him a scholarship, scored 24 goals in 28 appearances last season and has already put in some stand-out performances this season, including the u18s’ 4-0 win over Aston Villa.

At the time, we said he was one to watch for the future and it’s fantastic news that, according to Jeorge Bird, we’ve handed him his first professional contract.

As a lifelong Arsenal fan, I’m sure Nketiah is absolutely buzzing and we’ll be seeing plenty of him in the future.

“The day Arsenal showed they were interested in me was one of the happiest days I can remember,” he said to Arsenal.com back in September last year.

“It wasn’t only because I’ve always been an Arsenal fan, but two days earlier I was told that I would be released by Chelsea and not given a scholarship for this season. I was so down, but then Arsenal found out I was available, contacted my family and invited me to train.

“There was a massive swing in my emotions and I turned up for training feeling enthusiastic and comfortable in my surroundings. Not only were all the coaches helpful, a lot of the Arsenal players were already friends so I fitted in very quickly. Within a week I was told that I would be offered a scholarship so I was elated.

“I think it is important to bounce back quickly from disappointment and Arsenal gave me the opportunity to do that. Now I feel that I have to make the most of every second in training and in games to ensure I can become the best player I can be.”

Congratulations, Eddie.

Check out our youngster below.