Arsenal defender Zech Medley has signed his second professional contract with the club, indicating that he is very much in Unai Emery’s plans for the future.
The tall centre-back has been on the fringes of the first-team squad this season, featuring twice in the Europa League and once in the FA Cup in addition to making the bench in the Premier League.
Medley has also been a regular for Arsenal at U23 level and was part of the team that won the Premier League 2 title last season.
Previously on Chelsea’s books, Medley joined Arsenal in late 2016 following a successful trial.
Although he still has some improvements to make, the 18-year-old has progressed very well in recent seasons and now frequently trains with the first-team squad.
Further opportunities in the senior side now seem likely for Medley, and there is a possibility that he could be sent on loan at some point next season to further his development.
It will be interesting to see whether the club’s decision to give Medley a new deal has ramifications for Julio Pleguezuelo, who is out of contract this summer.
Jeorge Bird's Arsenal Youth 