Ex-Arsenal defender Matthew Upson's son joins Gunners after leaving Tottenham academy

The 18-year-old defender has signed a long-term contract with Arsenal after rejecting a new deal at Spurs, according to reports from Fabrizio Romano and Luca Bendoni. Tottenham will receive training compensation after Upson departed at the end of his contract.

The move ends an 11-year spell in Tottenham's academy, where Upson developed into one of the club's most highly rated young defenders. He made six appearances in the UEFA Youth League during the 2025/26 season and started 13 of Spurs' opening 16 Under-18 Premier League matches before his involvement declined amid growing speculation over his future.

Upson had no shortage of admirers after deciding to leave Tottenham. Chelsea, Manchester City, Everton, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen and AS Monaco all showed interest, but Arsenal won the race after the teenager and his family visited the club's London Colney training ground.

Romano confirmed the agreement on X, posting: "Elijah Upson to Arsenal, here we go! Agreement signed today for 18-year-old centre back to join Gunners project. Upson turned down new contract at Spurs to join Arsenal for long term, all set to be announced."

The switch carries added significance given his father's history with Arsenal. Matthew Upson spent six years at Highbury, winning the Premier League title in 2002 before later representing Birmingham City, West Ham United and Crystal Palace. He also earned 21 England caps and was part of England's 2010 FIFA World Cup squad.

Arsenal's track record of promoting academy talent is believed to have been a major factor in Elijah Upson's decision. Under Mikel Arteta, players including Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Max Dowman and Marli Salmon have all progressed through the club's youth system into the senior setup.

Upson will now continue his development in north London as Arsenal strengthen their long-term academy prospects while also pursuing experienced defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season. With William Saliba expected to miss the start of the campaign through injury, the Gunners remain linked with Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa and other centre-back targets.

For Arsenal, the signing represents another investment in young talent. For Tottenham, it is a painful loss as one of their brightest academy prospects crosses the north London divide.elsea target Maxence Lacroix.

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