21yo signs for new club after Arsenal release him | OneFootball

Former Arsenal academy defender Alex Kirk has signed for Sutton United, after being released by the Gunners over the summer.

Alex Kirk after signing for Sutton United (Photo via Sutton United)

Sutton United confirmed the signing of Alex Kirk this week, following Arsenal’s decision to release the centre-back over the summer.

“We’re delighted to bring Alex Kirk on board,” Sutton boss Steve Morison said. “He’s a player who has shown real maturity and potential at such a young age, with valuable experiences at Arsenal, Ayr United, and helping Bromley to promotion last season.

“His physicality, character, and versatility fit perfectly into our squad and align with the club’s vision. We’re focused on developing young, talented players who can grow with us, and Alex’s profile matches our long-term transfer strategy.

“We’re excited to see him develop and contribute to the team’s success.”

Alex Kirk playing for Bromley FC on loan from Arsenal (Photo via Kirk on Instagram)

Kirk told his new club’s media team that he was happy with the move, also hinting at a bit of relief to be getting back to playing football again.

“I’m obviously delighted,” Kirk said. “It’s been a long time since I last kicked a ball since the end of last season and I can’t wait to crack on and really get to meet everyone and start playing.”

That’s an understandable sentiment, given Kirk was released by Arsenal at the start of June. It’s now been over four months since his exit from his former club, which is a long time to wait for certainty on your future in the game.

Alex Kirk playing for Sutton United against Hartlepool (Photo via Sutton United on Twitter)

Kirk was straight into the action with Sutton this weekend, coming off the bench for a debut away to Hartlepool United in a 4-3 defeat.

Though it wasn’t the winning start the player might have hoped for, he’ll be pleased to have got going so quickly, debuting just 48 hours after the transfer was confirmed.

The former Gunner made over 50 appearances for Arsenal’s u18s and u21s, and had two successful spells out on loan with Ayr United and Bromley before his exit.

Kirk returns to the National League after that spell in the division with Bromley last season. Bromley achieved promotion with Kirk in the side, so he’ll want to repeat the trick in 2024/25.