Newly invited player to the Nigeria national team, Alex Iwobi, has been handed a new deal by English Premier League giants, Arsenal.

The 19-year-old forward, who is a key member of the Gunners’ under-21s, also impressed for the first team this pre-season.

Iwobi, who is also a nephew to Nigeria football legend, Austin Okocha, finished the 2014/15 campaign with nine goals in nine matches for the under-21s and has continued his scoring form this season, netting twice in five appearances for the second string.

Having represented England at youth level, the Lagos-born youngster is currently away on senior international duty with Nigeria as he looks to make his debut in the friendly games against Congo and Cameroon.

A statement on Arsenal’s official website read: “Alex Iwobi has signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal.

“Everyone at Arsenal would like to congratulate Alex on his new contract and we look forward to his continued progression in the season ahead”.

Iwobi, currently with the Nigerian squad in Belgium for the friendlies against Congo and Cameroun this week, said he is delighted to have extended his stay and hopes to gain further first-team opportunities over the coming months.

“I’m delighted to have signed a new contract, especially with a club like Arsenal who are so big,” he told Arsenal.com.

“I’m happy to sign for them.

“I like to think I have earned it. I have gone through a lot with Arsenal so to have a new and improved contract is very good and I’m happy to have earned it.

“I have had ups and downs. As I was growing up I had a lot of downs but as I get older things just keep getting better and better.
“The ultimate goal is to break into the first team and play as many games as I can.”