SAINTS have reportedly agreed a deal to sign 19 year old defender Zach Awe, following his exit from Arsenal.

The Gunners will be due a compensation fee, due to the centre-back’s age, despite the youngster departing from the club this summer.

Awe joined Arsenal as an eight year old in May 2012 before penning his first professional contract with the club in February 2021.

READ MORE: Rules may affect Southampton as EFL set to increase ball in-play time

Daily Telegraph journalist Mike McGrath reports that Southampton have beaten strong competition to sign the former Arsenal prospect, who is expected to compete for a first-team position.

Also comfortable playing as a defensive midfielder, the Greenwich-born defender first played under-23 football aged 16 and was named on the bench for Arsenal’s Premier League game at Wolves in February 2022.

Last season he made 27 appearances for their under-21 side across the Premier League 2 and EFL trophy as Arsenal finished seventh.

Should the deal be completed, Awe will join Shea Charles and Ryan Manning as summer signings for Russell Martin's side.