Arsenal have confirmed their new scholars ahead of next season, with Chido Martin Obi not amongst them.

The speculation regarding the striker's future has dragged on for months but it now seems as if his future lies away from the Gunners.

Martin Obi hit great heights for Arsenal U18s last season, scoring an incredible 32 goals.

However, Arsenal will now have to look to move on having seemingly lost one of their standout prospects.

With Martin Obi not involved, Arsenal U18s suddenly look a lot lighter with regards to attacking firepower.

Daniel Oyetunde is available as a second year scholar but most of the attacking players amongst the new scholars are either wingers or attacking midfielders.

Therefore, the acquisition of a new striker at U18 level could become something of a necessity for Arsenal before the season gets underway.

If nobody is signed then it is possible that Arsenal could look to promote from within given that they have some talented attacking players in their U16 setup.

With regards to the new scholars, there are some impressive players in the intake.

Goalkeepers Jack Porter and Khari Ranson have been capped by England at U16 level, while Sam Chapman, Samuel Onyekachukwu and Josh Ogunnaike will add to Arsenal U18s' defensive depth.

Theo Julienne and Ife Ibrahim are both capable of performing effectively in midfield or at right-back.

Meanwhile, Louis Zecevic John, Alex Marciniak, Andre Annous and new arrival Ceadach O'Neill are all talented creative prospects.