As I reported last month, Arsenal were slow to move in bid to sign Rangers wonderkid Billy Gilmour and he’s now signed for Chelsea.
The talented midfielder, 15, has now officially completed his move to Premier League leaders Chelsea. They will pay a £500,000 developmental fee with performance-related and career milestone bonuses included in the future.
Although supporters have been understandably critical about the move and how his development will ultimately pan out, this is another instance where Arsenal have missed out on signing a highly-rated player with plenty of potential.
good money for someone who is 15, will be playing at vitesse arnhem for 2/3 years and most likely end up at Swindon
— Nathan Dorrian (@Dorrian20) May 9, 2017
Gilmour is regarded as one of Scotland’s brightest young prospects and it’s no surprise to know that first-team manager Pedro Caixinha did his utmost to try and convince the teenager to snub interest from elsewhere.
He made his debut for the club’s u20 side last December and his eyecatching displays had attracted interest from elsewhere. His attitude and ability helped earn him a chance to train with the first-team, where he was given a squad number and narrowly missed out on getting the chance to play for the senior side during Scottish Cup matches against Morton and Hamilton.
Chelsea were an attractive option because he wouldn’t have to leave the UK completely – plus the Blues have one of the world’s best youth academies, so their excellent reputation is impressive to say the least.
A visit to Chelsea’s training ground in Cobham reportedly convinced Gilmour of his decision and he’ll join up with new team-mates in the youth academy once he turns 16 next month.