Arsenal, Chelsea and Man United all in the race to sign 17-year-old wonderkid | OneFootball

Arsenal and Man United Eye Ajax Starlet Jorthy Mokio

Ajax’s famed academy continues to shine, with 17-year-old Belgian prospect Jorthy Mokio now drawing attention from Europe’s elite. According to CaughtOffside’s Ahad Shaukat, scouts from Barcelona, Real Madrid, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United have all been tracking the teenager.

Rapid Rise in Amsterdam

Having joined Ajax from KAA Gent only last year, Mokio has wasted no time in making his presence felt. As Shaukat notes, “His development has been rapid, breaking into Ajax’s senior squad during Europa League qualifiers, an impressive achievement for a player of his age.”

So far, the Belgian has made five senior appearances this season — a clear sign of the faith Ajax coaches have in his ability. His composure on the ball and adaptability are standout qualities, particularly at such a formative stage of his career.

Versatility Adds to Value

One of the key factors driving interest is Mokio’s positional flexibility. Shaukat highlights that the youngster is “naturally a defensive midfielder, he is equally comfortable operating as a centre-back.” Left-footed and calm in possession, he also fits seamlessly into a back-three system, a tactical asset modern managers crave.

Such versatility explains why both Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring him closely, with Premier League scouts already making trips to watch him live this season.

Photo: IMAGO

Ajax Standing Firm

Despite the growing attention, Ajax are reluctant to part ways with their latest prodigy. Shaukat explains that “Ajax are keen to keep hold of their rising star, with his contract running until 2027.” However, reported valuations of €25–30 million could yet test their resolve.

Mokio’s representatives remain focused on finding “the right project for his development,” stressing that consistent first-team football will be pivotal. Whether that journey continues in Amsterdam or moves abroad remains to be seen.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an Arsenal fan’s perspective, this report sparks genuine intrigue. Mikel Arteta has built a side that thrives on tactical flexibility and technical precision, and Mokio seems to tick both boxes. At just 17, he is already showing the maturity to play in multiple positions, something Arteta values highly in his evolving system.

Of course, €25–30 million is a hefty fee for a teenager with only a handful of senior appearances. Fans will rightly question whether that investment should instead go towards more proven players. Yet, Arsenal’s recent history with young signings — such as Gabriel Martinelli and William Saliba — shows the club’s willingness to take calculated risks on emerging talents.

Another factor is competition. With Manchester United, Chelsea, and European giants like Barcelona and Real Madrid also in the mix, Arsenal may need to act decisively if they want to secure Mokio’s signature.

In truth, Mokio might still benefit from another season or two at Ajax, gaining regular game time before making the leap to the Premier League. But for Arsenal fans, knowing the club are keeping tabs on such a high-potential midfielder is reassuring. It signals ambition, foresight, and an eye on sustainable squad building.