Who is Igor Tyjon? Arsenal confirm new striker signing after transfer breakthrough | OneFootball

Teenage forward expected to push for first-team involvement this season under Mikel Arteta

The club have attempted to reach an agreement with Blackburn for the striker over the last few transfer windows, but on each occasion have been unsuccessful.

Tyjon underwent a medical last week after the two clubs agreed a deal worth an initial £1million, with a further £2m in potential add-ons. The transfer was officially announced on Friday.

The 18-year-old - who has been handed the No64 shirt - will join up with Arsenal's Under-21s squad initially, but he will also be training with the first team at times.

Arsenal have made a real push to strengthen at academy level in recent windows and that has kicked on this summer.

Elijah Upson arrived after leaving Tottenham, while Axel Donczew is set to join from Cardiff.

Arsenal are also expected to wrap up the double signing of James Scanlon and Habeeb Ogunneye from Manchester United.

Who is Igor Tyjon?

Tyjon has been on Arsenal's radar for more than a year, with the club particularly keen to improve on their striker options in the academy.

He was a youth prospect at Rochdale before joining Blackburn's academy in the summer of 2023.

Tyjon scored on his debut for the U21s as a 15-year-old and was named on the bench for the first team by the end of that season.

New arrival: Arsenal have announced the signing of England youth international Igor Tyjon

Getty

The teenager signed a two-year scholarship contract at Blackburn in 2024 and later made three first-team appearances.

In 33 games for the U21s, Tyjon scored 13 goals. Those matches came primarily with him leading the line, but he has also been used as a winger and as a No10.

Both of Tyjon’s parents are Polish and he represented Poland at U16 level, but has since been capped by England and went to the U17 World Cup last season.

Blackburn were keen for Tyjon to sign a professional contract but he made it clear that he had no intention of doing so.

The club instead extended his scholarship terms, which were due to expire this summer, for a third year.

Arsenal remained keen on pursuing Tyjon and had to increase their offer, having previously seen bids worth around £1m rejected.

An agreement has now been reached and his arrival made official.