Premier League club Everton have announced the signing of a young Arsenal striker on a three-year deal this summer
Everton have announced the signing of Arsenal academy striker Omari Benjamin on a three-year contract, with the player officially departing from the Gunners at the end of June.Sports and Fitness
Benjamin, who had spent time on trial at Everton earlier this year, has now made the move permanent. “This is a really exciting opportunity for me,” Benjamin said.
“I’m keen to show what I can do on the pitch and excited at what is to come at Everton. When I came here on trial, the boys and staff were really nice, there was a good feel to the club and everyone was really welcoming, so it made it easy to sign here.”
Reports from March indicated that Benjamin wouldn’t be offered a professional contract at Arsenal, prompting the striker to explore other options. During his trial with Everton in the same month, Benjamin scored in an U21 trial match against Tottenham Hotspur. He later returned to play for Arsenal’s U18s before the end of the campaign.
Any lingering doubts about his future were dispelled when Arsenal confirmed his departure, and Benjamin posted a farewell message. “Thank you to all the coaches, staff, and players for helping me during my five years at Arsenal,” Benjamin wrote.
“It’s been a joy to play for this club, and I will take all my learning and the great memories made with me. Wish you all the best.”
Throughout the season, the 18-year-old Benjamin made 17 appearances for Arsenal’s U18s, U19s, and U21s, scoring four goals and assisting two. Everton now looks forward to helping him fulfill his potential.
Benjamin is the latest academy player to leave Arsenal this summer, following the departures of defender Reuell Walters and winger Amario Cozier-Duberry, both of whom rejected new contract offers from the club to seek regular first-team opportunities elsewhere.