Arsenal have confirmed that Alex Iwobi has signed his first professional contract at the club, with the winger, who turned 18 last week, having enjoyed a hugely impressive season.

Iwobi, who was an un-used substitute for the first-team against West Bromwich Albion in the Capital One Cup, was the joint highest appearance maker for Arsenal at youth level during 2013/14, representing the development sides on 40 occasions.

The England U17 international, who can also play behind the striker, was particularly impressive in the early rounds of the FA Youth Cup, and has now signed a new two-year contract as he seeks to become more regularly involved in Arsenal’s U21 side, for whom he featured 10 times last season.

Whilst Iwobi’s short-term future is now secure, the five remaining second-year scholars are still waiting for confirmation on their next steps. Glen Kamara, who was tied with Iwobi in terms of youth team appearances, should get a new deal after making considerable progress over the past ten months, whilst goalkeeper Josh Vickers is also poised to be granted an extended stay having impressed in the Youth Cup and out on loan at Canvey Island.

Winger Tarum Dawkins and left-back Arinse Uade featured regularly for the U18s but struggled to break into the U21 side, although the pair will still be hopeful of being kept on. The versatile Alfred Mugabo, however, is set to be released following some disappointing performances in the second half of the season.