Arsenal are currently leading the race for teenage sensation Makhaya James as they prepare to do battle with Scottish giants Celtic, according to Football Insider.
The defender has been a standout performer within the youth ranks for Colchester United this season, and this has put plenty of top clubs on alert, as shown by the calibre of the clubs already confirming interest in him.
Who is Makhaya James?
The 17-year-old is yet to feature for the League Two side’s senior team, but his abilities have been wowing scouts, with top clubs circling to add the talent to their youth ranks.
However, he gained senior experience in the 2021/22 campaign, where he featured for non-league outfit Glebe FC.
Despite interest from higher up the football pyramid, Colchester United were able to sign the youngster to a professional contract.
Last summer, James signed a two-year scholarship with Colchester, after spending time with the Kinetic Academy, which specialises in talents aged 14-19, becoming the 58th player to join a professional club from the programme.
Bolstering youth prospects.
The two sides both look to boost their youth ranks with this signing, Arsenal, of course, has a very famous youth programme, which has seen some top talents break out recently, such as Bukayo Saka, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson. On top of that, they have seen players enjoy some solid loan spells in the EFL, such as Brooke Norton-Cuffy.
Celtic meanwhile look to bolster their side for different reasons, they lost a number of youth talents. In recent seasons a number of prospects have departed the Scottish outfit for sides in the top two divisions in England.
What has been said?
Football Insider has revealed that the two clubs are keeping regular checks on the teenage left-back, and look to be in pole position for one to sign their target this season. It is also stated that a number of other clubs are keen on the defensive prospect, and the League Two side are bracing themselves for several offers, as they prepare to battle to keep their prodigy.
Writers View
The two clubs mentioned will both be attractive prospects for the youngster as he makes the decision on his next future. However, one key factor may be who can offer first-team football to him quicker.
With the Gunners firing at such a high level lately, it would be difficult to see him in their first team any time soon, especially given their options at left-back. Despite this, Jack Wilshere’s Under 18’s at the club have enjoyed a very good season, but look to boost their ranks after a 5-1 FA Youth Cup defeat in the final to West Ham.
Celtic can certainly offer him a fast track to senior football, but will the level of football be enough to attract him to join the club?
