Manchester City are set to sign 18-year-old Ghanian starlet, Henry Oware, beating out competition from Arsenal and Barcelona.

Arsenal were interested in signing West Africa Football Academy’s 18-year-old defender, Henry Oware, but they seem to have been beaten to his signature by Manchester City, who plan to send him straight out on loan to Ligue 1 side, Troyes.

After scouting the player for two years, the City Group are believed to have made their move for the centreback, who will cost in the region of £840,000 (€1m).

Oware is currently valued at around £23,000 and has made eight appearances this season in the Ghanaian top flight, after being promoted to the WAFA’s first team when he was just 16 during the 20/21 season.

At the start of their time keeping an eye on the defender, Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, was, of course, still at City, which is likely where he learned of him.

City are said to be awaiting international clearance before the move can be completed.

There are a few reasons for the immediate loan to City’s sister club, Troyes, but top of the list is the English FA’s eligibility criteria.

Their strict points system stops Oware from playing in England at this point.