Arsenal have opened contract talks with Tyreece John-Jules and Xavier Amaechi, looking to tie them down to long-term deals, according to reports.

Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex on March 25, 2019 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Alexandre Lacazette taking Tyreece John-Jules under his wing at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex on March 25, 2019, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo via Arsenal.com)

Goal write that Arsenal want John-Jules and Amaechi to sign extensions amid interest in them from several Bundesliga clubs. Bayern Munich are one of the teams said to be involved, and the Gunners are reportedly well aware of that.

The academy duo both signed professional contracts with the club in early 2018, lasting until 2020. They’ve since come on a massive amount on the pitch, earning longer-term offers. The main problem is likely going to be convincing the pair that sticking around is the best thing for their careers.

There’s no doubting either player’s output with the youth teams in 2018/19. John-Jules scored 16 goals and assisted eight in 30 appearances, but his link-up play has been the highlight, as there are few better at youth level when it comes to holding the ball up and bringing teammates into play.

Amaechi, meanwhile, is an exciting left-footed winger. Despite an injury keeping him out for the first half of the season, he’s still managed 10 goal contributions in 18 games this campaign. He loves to take players on with stepovers and body feints, adding that bit of flair the fans love to see from their wide players.

BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND - MARCH 04: Xavier Amaechi of Arsenal is challenged by Ben Cabango of Swansea City during the Premier League 2 match between Arsenal and Swansea City at Meadow Park on March 04, 2019 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by James Chance/Getty Images)
BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND – MARCH 04: Xavier Amaechi of Arsenal is challenged by Ben Cabango of Swansea City during the Premier League 2 match between Arsenal and Swansea City at Meadow Park on March 04, 2019, in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by James Chance/Getty Images)

The problem is getting them first-team chances. Both players only turned 18 in 2019, so it’s not as if they should be expecting to be regulars in the starting lineup just yet. However, they’re going to start wanting to make the squad and get opportunities from the bench before long.

John-Jules joined the first team for a couple of Europa League group stage matches in late 2018, but he didn’t make it onto the pitch. He did come off the bench in Dubai to score the winner against Al-Nasr though. Amaechi started that friendly match too, and he now looks likely to make the squad for the Europa League final later this month.

Unai Emery is clearly starting to notice their potential, but he’ll have to convince them that’s going to lead to consistent further opportunities next season and beyond. Let’s hope he can do so.