Southampton win race to sign Nigeria-eligible CB after release by Arsenal 

EFL Championship club Southampton have beaten a plethora of clubs to sign Greenwich, United Kingdom-born Nigerian central defender Zach Awe. 

The Hale End Academy product was released by Arsenal at the end of last month after he opted not to sign a contract extension with the north London club.

The Daily Telegraph sports reporter Mike McGrath has informed through social media that Southampton have agreed deal to sign Zach Awe who is now expected to compete for a first-team place at centre-back under manager Russell Martin this season. 

Although Awe left the Emirates Stadium as a free agent, Arsenal will be due compensation because he was offered a new contract and is under the age of 24.

The 19-year-old has decided to move on to pastures new as his first team opportunities were non-existent under manager Mikel Arteta despite training with the senior squad on several occasions. 

Awe received just one call-up for a first team game during his time at the Emirates Stadium and it came against Wolverhampton Wanderers on February 10, 2022 when he was a non-playing substitute. 

Initially signed by Arsenal as a right fullback, the physical player was later shifted across into central defence.

Awe is set to link up with Nigeria internationals Paul Onuachu and Joe Aribo, plus former Chelsea right-back Derrick Abu at Southampton. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit: arsenal.com

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