Benfica have completed the transfer of 19-year-old striker Chris Willock on a five-year deal from Arsenal, the club have confirmed.
An official announcement had been expected after pictures emerged of Willock sporting Benfica’s kit in their stadium, which followed recent rumours that this surprise deal could be on the cards.
Manchester City were also linked with the highly-rated attacker, whom Arsenal had been keen to tie down to a new contract as his deal officially expires on July 1.
Willock has long been thought of as a top prospect at the Emirates Stadium, having joined as a scholar all the way back in 2003.
While Arsenal have a proud record of giving first-team opportunities to young players and academy products, Willock has opted to move on in search of regular playing time at the top level.
Speaking about the move, Willock said: ‘I think we have a great team and we can achieve great things in the future. I hope I can show what I can do on the field.’
In more positive news for Arsenal, they look increasingly likely to bring in a striker of their own this summer, with a move for Lyon’s Alexandre Lacazette looking imminent.
They may, however, lose more important players as Alexis Sanchez is linked with Manchester City and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain emerges as a target for Liverpool.
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