Arsenal academy graduate Zach Awe has taken to his Instagram account to announce that he has left the North London club.

The 19-year-old centre-back joined the Gunners aged nine, progressing through the youth ranks and establishing himself as a regular for the under-21s last term.

Awe also made the matchday squad for the Premier League game against Wolverhampton Wanderers in February 2022.

However, he did not get to make his senior debut before his Arsenal contract expired this summer.

He has since agreed to join Southampton on a three-year contract and will be competing for a place in the Saints first-team under manager Russell Martin.

Awe trained with Arsenal’s first team and will be looking forward to playing in the Premier League with the South Coast club.

The teenage sensation took to Instagram yesterday to say his goodbyes.

“My time at Arsenal has come to an end,” Awe said.

“I would like to thank the players and staff that have supported me throughout my journey at Arsenal.

“During my 10 years at the club I have learnt so much about myself as a player and a person.

“However, I feel that it is my time to move on and I am excited about the journey ahead.”

Arsenal are due compensation due to developing Awe at their academy, and the move to Southampton is expected to be completed this week.

The 6ft 4in defender made 35 appearances for Arsenal under-21s last term, and also made 27 appearances across the Premier League 2 and the EFL trophy.

Southampton are eyeing an instant return to the Premier League after relegating last term, and the qualities of Awe have caught their attention.

The teenager will immediately link up with their under-21s but is expected to be featuring for their first-team sooner or later, and he will be keen to impress.