Manchester United have confirmed they’ve completed a deal to sign Ayden Heaven from Arsenal.
Heaven becomes Ruben Amorim’s first arrival since his appointment as Erik ten Hag’s replacement in November last year.
The defender joined Arsenal as a 13-year-old in 2019 and made his senior debut for the Gunners as a substitute in an EFL Cup win at Preston North End in October.
United warded off significant competition from the likes of Eintracht Frankfurt, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund to land Hayden.
He has put pen to paper on a contract until June 2029, with the option of an additional year.
United have also confirmed that Heaven will immediately link up with the first-team squad.
Reacting to officially becoming a United player, the 18-year-old said, “I am incredibly proud to join Manchester United. I’m grateful to everyone who helped make this dream a reality.”
“There is so much that I want to achieve in the game, I’ll be giving everything to continue my development and become the best player that I can be.”
United’s technical director Jason Wilcox remarked, “We are delighted that Ayden has joined Manchester United. He is already an extremely talented defender who is ready to join our first-team squad in order to maximise his development.”
“This club has a phenomenal track record of supporting young players and we believe that Ayden is in the perfect place to reach his excellent potential.”
Settling in 🏡#MUFC pic.twitter.com/vT7LsOYC4V
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 1, 2025
According to Laurie Whitwell of The Athletic, Heaven joins United for a fee in the region of £1.5m.
#MUFC confirm Ayden Heaven joins from Arsenal. Defender, 18, joins for a fee in region of £1.5m.
Signs contract to 2029 with optional extra. Part of Ruben Amorim’s first-team squad.
⬇️
— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) February 1, 2025
The Red Devils are back in action on Sunday when they host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. Kick-off is at 14:00 GMT.
Featured image Warren Little via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
