Arsenal are preparing to launch a fresh and improved bid for Blackburn Rovers' highly-rated teenage striker Igor Tyjon, as the club's extensive youth recruitment drive continues to gather pace.
Gunners Target Championship 'Standout'
The North London club view the 17-year-old forward as a shrewd long-term investment and are expected to return with a new offer this month. Tyjon, who is currently on a scholarship at Ewood Park and has not yet signed a professional contract, represents a final chance for Blackburn to secure a fee in the January transfer window.
According to reports, Arsenal have already seen multiple bids exceeding £1 million rejected by the Championship side in recent months. The youngster has made just three senior appearances for Rovers: two brief outings in the Championship last season and one in this term's Carabao Cup.
Speaking after Tyjon's debut, former Blackburn manager John Eustace hailed his potential, stating: "Igor has been a standout young player since I have been at the football club... He is certainly one for the future."
Gyokeres Add-On Payment Activated
In related Arsenal news, the club has reportedly triggered the first instalment of add-ons related to last summer's signing of striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP. The initial fee was £55 million, but the deal included clauses that could see the total rise to around £64 million.
It is now confirmed that Arsenal have paid an extra £1 million to Sporting after Gyokeres featured for more than 45 minutes in the recent 3-2 Premier League victory over AFC Bournemouth. The agreement stipulates a £1 million payment for every block of 20 appearances where the Swedish international plays 45 minutes or more, with these payments capped at just over £4 million.
With the Gunners still competing on four fronts this season – the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup – there is significant potential for further payments to be activated.
Youth Recruitment in Full Swing
The pursuit of Tyjon fits Arsenal's established strategy of investing in promising young talent. The club has already agreed a deal for Irish midfielder Victor Ozhianvuna to join from Shamrock Rovers in January 2027, while Ecuadorian twins Edwin and Holger Quintero are scheduled to arrive at the Emirates Stadium in August 2026.
This ongoing focus suggests that manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu are building a squad designed for sustained success, blending established stars with the game's next generation.
