Centre-back Joseph Olowu has signed his first professional contract with Arsenal after making excellent progress over the past couple of seasons.

Olowu, a graduate of the club’s Hale End academy, made his debut for Arsenal U23s during the first year of his scholarship and has made three appearances at that level this season, while he has also continued to feature for the U18s.

The 18-year-old, who is comfortable in possession, has missed several games recently through injury but is nearing a return to full fitness and will now be looking to continue his development having secured his short-term future at the club.

Olowu becomes the latest member of last season’s scholars to sign a professional contract with Arsenal, following on from Joao Virginia, Emile Smith Rowe, Zech Medley and Nathan Tormey.

There remain six second years whose futures are undecided – Daniel Ballard, Jay Beckford, Josh Benson, Robbie Burton, Tobi Omole and Dominic Thompson.