Arsenal are battling to secure the future of highly-rated academy defender Ayden Heaven, as the 18-year-old centre-back becomes the latest target for European heavyweights, including Barcelona, Manchester United, and Eintracht Frankfurt.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have joined the race to sign Ayden Heaven, who is out of contract at the end of the season and has yet to agree to professional terms with Arsenal.
Heaven, who made his senior debut for the Gunners this season in a 3-0 victory over Preston North End in the EFL Cup, has drawn widespread interest due to his immense potential and left-footed ability, making him a standout prospect among his peers.
Barcelona, known for targeting future free agents, are reportedly monitoring Heaven closely as they seek to reinforce their defensive options for next season.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano notes that Barcelona are not alone in their interest, with Manchester United and Eintracht Frankfurt also circling. Arsenal, however, have made a renewal offer to the England youth international in a bid to keep him in North London.
Barcelona face their toughest competition from Frankfurt, whose reputation for nurturing young players could prove a compelling pull for the teenager. The German club’s CEO, Markus Krosche, previously confirmed Frankfurt’s interest in Heaven, saying, “We spoke to Arsenal. We try to sign him. He’s a really good prospect, and we’ll see if we can find a solution with him.”
Manchester United’s involvement further complicates Arsenal’s position. Having previously lost academy players like Omari Hutchinson to Chelsea and Chido Obi-Martin to United, Arsenal will be keen to avoid another high-profile departure, especially to a Premier League rival.

The Gunners, however, reportedly remain optimistic about Heaven’s future at the club. Having already made seven first-team matchday squads this season, the young defender is seen as one of the brightest prospects in Arsenal’s academy system.
However, the longer Heaven delays signing professional terms, the greater the risk of losing him on a free transfer, with Barcelona now posing a significant challenge in the race for his signature.
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