Youth defender Zach Awe has posted a farewell message to Arsenal, amid reports that he’s agreed a deal to sign for Southampton.

Posting on Instagram on Monday, Zach Awe said his farewells to Arsenal, suggesting it was his decision to leave the club at the end of his contract.

“My time at Arsenal has come to an end,” Awe confirmed. “I would like to thank the players and staff that have supported me throughout my journey at Arsenal.

“During my 10 years at the club, I have learnt so much about myself as a player and a person.

“However, I feel that it is my time to move on and I am excited about the journey ahead.”

Mike McGrath previously reported that Southampton have agreed a deal to sign Awe, who was released by Arsenal this summer.

The Athletic confirm Awe has agreed to a three-year deal and the transfer should be completed in the coming days.

Despite Awe technically being available as a free agent, Southampton still had to pay a compensation payment to Arsenal, as the defender is under the age of 23.

Those compensation payments are usually only applicable if the training club offers the player a new contract, so Awe’s suggestion that he chose to move on does indicate that Southampton would have to pay the fee.

Southampton reportedly fought off strong competition for Awe’s signature, and he’s now expected to fight for a first-team place at centre-back under Russell Martin this season.

Awe made 35 appearances for the Arsenal u21s in 2022/23, almost all of them starts, making him one of the busiest players in the entire squad.

The teenager was also involved in the Arsenal first-team squad in the past, making the bench for a Premier League fixture against Wolves last year.

At around 6’4″, Awe certainly stands out physically in youth football. Despite his size and position, he also has good technique that can often catch the eye.