Per Mertesacker in attendance at Arsenal's u21 game vs Reading (Photo via Arsenal Academy on Twitter) AFC Bournemouth confirmed late last week that they've completed the signings of Coby Small and Teo Minchev, both previously of the Arsenal academy.

Small had spent a couple of years on a scholarship contract with Arsenal, but he was released this summer after only making four appearances for the Gunners' u18s last season.

The centre-back had struggled with injuries early on in the 2023/24 campaign, and after a brief return to the team in January and February, the decision was made to let him go.

Coby Small signs for Bournemouth (Photo via AFCB.co.uk) "We are really pleased to bring in Coby," Bournemouth academy manager Alan Connell said. "He trained with us for a few weeks during pre-season and impressed, especially in a friendly against Southampton.

"He's a really focused young man who wants to improve his game and we think he's got the potential to do that with us.

"Now, it's up to myself, the staff and, most importantly, Coby to maximise his potential and we are all excited to see how he gets on."

Small himself also commented on the move, saying: "I am buzzing to be signing here. After coming down and seeing all the boys and playing for them, I just think it's the perfect fit for me.

"Playing here against Burnley was a tough game but a very good experience and to win it in the last minute is always nice."

Teo Minchev signs for Bournemouth (Photo via AFCB.co.uk) As for Minchev, the defender was most recently on the books with Swansea City, having been released by Arsenal last summer.

The Gunners opted not to hand him a scholarship contract, prompting his move to Wales, but he's now returning to England with Bournemouth.

"Teo is an excellent character to add to the group," Bournemouth u18 boss James Lowy said. "When he came away with us as a trialist during pre-season, he fitted in really well with the players and was brilliant around the staff.

"He is very comfortable on the ball as a centre-half. The way we like to play as an academy, he showed those traits in being able to be brave to receive under pressure and wants to take and progress the ball as well.

"In terms of his defending, he is aggressive and on the front foot, which are all the traits we like to have in a player in his position. I think he will be a great addition for the group."