Kelechi Nwakali: Nigerian starlet confirms he has signed five-year deal with Arsenal

Nigerian youngster Kelechi Nwakali has confirmed the signing of a five-year deal with Arsenal, describing it as a dream come true. The 17-year-old midfielder is among the most sought-after young players in the world after his appearances at Fifa Under-17 World Cup, but it appears the North London club have won the race for his signature.

Nwakali was reportedly also chased by the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea and West Ham United, following his head-turning displays at the tournament in Chile. But Nwakali has revealed he has always wanted to play for the Gunners.

"I just came back from London, I have signed a five-year contract with Arsenal," Nwakali told allnigeriasoccer.com.

Arsenal will reportedly pay in excess of £2m ($2.8m) for the player, who won the Golden Ball in Chile. It is said, too, that Arsenal have beaten the likes of Sporting Lisbon, Olympiakos and Udinese to the player's signature.

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger previously admitted he was keen to sign the player, describing him as a "top" talent. "There are of course work permit issues, medical issues, but it is progressing well," the French boss said.

"We identified him [Nwakali] after he won player of the tournament [at the under-17 World Cup], he is a top player, we will see if we can manage to get it over the line."