17-year-old midfielder Catalin Cirjan signed a professional contract with Arsenal this week, after joining from Romania over the summer.

On Friday, Arsenal confirmed Catalin Cirjan’s new contract with the club, his first professional deal. Cirjan joined from Romanian third division side Viitorul Domnesti over the summer, but he had to wait until his 17th birthday this month to sign professional terms.

Cirjan has three assists and a goal in 11 appearances (eight starts) so far, playing in midfield. The team have struggled with a large turnover of players this season and the new boys are really still settling in, but Cirjan has made an encouraging start individually.

The midfielder is regularly involved in international youth games with Romania.

The stats in Romania aren’t as comprehensive at the lower age groups as in England. As a result, it’s hard to give specific details of appearances, goals and assists. Still, he definitely travelled with his country over the last couple of international breaks at youth level.

From what I’ve seen, he has a good eye for a pass and excellent close control. He loves a lightly chipped shot over the keeper when one-on-one:

https://twitter.com/ArsenalAcademy/status/1179077262651658240

After signing his new deal, Cirjan told Arsenal: “I am very proud but this is just the first step. I will continue to give everything, every day, to achieve my big dream to play for the first team.”