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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Marc Mayo

Arsenal confirm Zak Swanson transfer exit after 15 years at club

Arsenal have confirmed the permanent transfer of defender Zak Swanson to Portsmouth.

The 21-year-old defender joined the club’s academy at the age of six before signing a professional contract in 2019, although he failed to make a senior appearance for the Gunners.

A short-lived loan spell at MVV Maastricht in 2020-21 was followed by a number of appearances on Mikel Arteta’s first-team bench last campaign.

Swanson was pictured in pre-season training alongside the club’s senior stars last week but Arsenal have agreed a sale to Portsmouth, announced on Monday.

A club statement read: “We wish Zak all the best for his future with Portsmouth, he will always be a valued part of the Arsenal family.”

League One side Portsmouth have paid an undisclosed fee for the youngster.

Manager Danny Cowley said: “We’ve highlighted that we want to try to bring talented young players to the club.

“Zak is exactly that and brings an energy and athleticism to our squad after a fantastic footballing education at Arsenal. He’s technically very good and has lovely passing skills, along with the ability to manipulate the ball in tight areas.

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