Aaron Ramsey

Welsh International Aaron Ramsey signed for Arsenal in June 2008 from Championship side Cardiff City, after rejecting contract offers from both Manchester United and Everton.

The Caerphilly born youngster joined Cardiff aged just 8 years old, but things could have been very different for Ramsey, as he was also a talented Rugby player, and a 800 metre sprinting champion. He rose quickly through the ranks with his local club, before starring against Arsenal for the Blue Birds during the 3-2 defeat at the Emirates in the FA Youth Cup.

After the match, in which Aaron was on target, a bid of £1 million was lodged by Arsenal for his services, but unfortunately it was rejected. This would not be the end of the Gunners interest, who watched on as he made his first team debut aged just 16, and finished last season with 22 appearances, and two goals as City reached the FA Cup final.

Following the end of last season, the race to sign the most sought after youngster in Britain began, as Manchester United agreed a fee for his transfer. The media seemed certain he would be heading to Old Trafford, but both Arsenal and Everton also agreed a price for Aaron, leaving the 17 year old a choice between three of the Premierships biggest clubs.

The Ramsey family held talks with Man Utd first, who sent club captain Gary Neville to tie up the deal, which left Aaron disappointed that no senior member of the management staff were willing to speak with him about the potential transfer. He also spoke with David Moyes at Everton, but never seemed likely to end up on Mersyside.

Arsène Wenger was determined to get his man, and although he was in Switzerland working for French TV, agreed to fly the family first class on a private jet, to meet them face-to-face and assure him Arsenal was the club to look after his development. Both parties asked questions, and discussed the plan to transform ‘Rambo’ into a world beater, before the player indicated North London was his preferred destination two days later.

After completing personal terms and a medical examination, Ramsey signed a long term contract for a fee of £5 million. The versatile and tenacious central or right sided midfielder, has already been in and around the full Welsh national team, and will look to push into Wenger’s first eleven for next season.

Many people have described Aaron as one of the brightest prospects in club football, noted for his incredible passing range, as well as his mature and intelligent approach to all challenges put to him. Definitely a name to remember for the future.

Name: Aaron James Ramsey
Age: 17
Nationality: Welsh
Position: Central Midfield, Left/Right Wing
Previous Clubs: Cardiff City
Contract: Professional