Arsenal have landed a nine-year-old from South Africa after a five-week trial with the club impressed the coaches.

Jayden Adetiba, who hails from Cape Town, came through the SuperSport United soccer school and they couldn’t be prouder of their young star for signing for Arsenal.

Jayden’s dad, John said, “I have always been a firm believer in allowing all children to have big dreams – but explaining to them also that the pursuit of such dreams must be accompanied with hard work.

“Over the years, I’ve heard over and over children being told that very few make it as professional players – that may be true but children must be encouraged to believe that they could be one of the few if they work hard.

“This is the mentality Jayden has always had and I would encourage Cape Town boys to believe this too.

“While we were in Cape Town I saw so many amazing young talented players, especially at Supersport Soccer School as well as at Sunningdale City FC – I believe given the right opportunities many of those children have the ability to make their mark in top academies in Europe and elsewhere,” he said.

Adetiba was in England to trial for Blackburn Rovers before Arsenal got involved.

‘Repeated stellar performances’ caught the attention of the Arsenal scouts who offered him the chance of signing for them, something Adetiba’s family couldn’t resist.