Nigerian-born teenage central defender Zach Awe offered professional contract by Arsenal

NIGERIAN-born teenager Zach Awe has been offered his first professional contract with English Premier League club Arsenal and invited to train with the first team in what could be a prelude to him making his first appearance for the side.

Awe, 17, is a 6ft 4in tall central defender born in Greenwich, in southeast London, who has been on the books of the Gunners since he was eight years old. Born on January 9, 2004, he attended Thomas Tallis School in Blackheath, London and was a member of the Arsenal youth academy throughout his time there.

A tall and physically imposing defender, Awe made his competitive debut for Arsenal U18s against Southampton while still a schoolboy. He could be in line for a debut in Europe as he has been added to Arsenal's Europa League squad for the knockout rounds of the competition.

Awe recently made his debut for the Arsenal under-23s in a 6-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers. He has already featured as an England youth international and is known for his composure in possession and his ability to push forward into midfield.