A brief piece on the Gunners’ official website confirms that
Arsene Wenger has signed his third player of the summer - and
second French midfielder. Francis Coquelin has joined the club from
French third division side Laval.
Coquelin, 17, impressed during a trial with Arsenal last season
and had been expected to sign during the last two months.
He passed a medical back in May but his signing was only
officially announced by the Gunners on Friday.
“Arsenal have signed French midfield player Francis Coquelin on
professional terms,” said the statement.
“The 17-year-old has joined from SASP Stade Lavallois Mayeene
MFC.”
Laval revealed last month that Coquelin, who had not signed a
first professional contract with them, was free to move on.
Arsenal are therefore believed to have signed him without having
to pay a transfer fee.
Reports suggest that Werder Bremen’s Amaury Bischoff could be
the next youngster to join the Gunners.