With a statement on the official website, Premier League table-toppers Arsenal have announced that versatile Nigerian midfielder Ife Ibrahim has signed a new deal with the club. 

Eleven years after his arrival at Arsenal's Hale End Academy, Ibrahim has signed his first professional contract with the Gunners.

Under Premier League regulations, all players in their U17 year must sign a scholarship agreement before they are eligible to sign their first professional contract on or after their 17th birthday.

The 18-year-old has earned himself a new deal following his outstanding performances for Arsenal U18, U19 and U21 teams.

Although he has yet to make his first team debut, the London-born player has trained with the senior players on multiple occasions this season.

Ibrahim has appeared in 20 matches across the Premier League 2, UEFA Youth League, U18 Premier League, EFL Trophy and FA Youth Cup this season, registering four assists.

The Hale End Academy graduate has also earned international recognition with England's Young Lions, featuring in two friendlies against France U18s last October. 

One of the standout moments of his Arsenal career so far was playing against Manchester United in an FA Youth Cup clash last season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel