Manchester United sign young defender Heaven from Arsenal

LONDON: Manchester United have officially secured the signing of 18-year-old defender Ayden Heaven from Arsenal on a contract lasting until June 2029, with an option to extend for another year. The club announced the transfer on Saturday.

Heaven, an England U-19 international, made his senior debut for Arsenal in October during a 3-0 victory over Preston North End in the League Cup. The promising centre-back has been regarded as one of the rising talents in English football.

“I’m incredibly proud to join Manchester United. I’m grateful to everyone who helped make this dream a reality,” Heaven said in a statement shared by the club.

United’s acquisition of Heaven is seen as a move to bolster their defensive future, with the youngster expected to develop further under the club’s coaching setup.