### Arsenal in Last-Minute Talks to Keep Academy Trio Amid Contract Expirations
Arsenal is racing against time to secure new contracts for three promising players before their current deals expire at the end of the month. The club is in “last-minute negotiations” with goalkeeper Karl Hein, and academy stars Amario Cozier-Duberry and Reuell Walters, as they aim to prevent them from leaving for free.
#### Urgent Contract Renewals
Arsenal is determined to keep Hein, Cozier-Duberry, and Walters, whose contracts are set to expire on June 30. The club is optimistic about reaching agreements with all three players before the deadline. This urgency comes as Mohamed Elneny and Cedric Soares have already been confirmed to leave the club when their contracts expire on June 30.
#### Karl Hein: Rising Goalkeeping Talent
Karl Hein, 22, is an established international for Estonia, having made 30 appearances for his country. He joined Arsenal’s U18 team in 2019 and has been a regular on the bench for the senior team, including all 10 Champions League matches last season. Hein made his sole appearance for the Gunners in a 3-1 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion. With Aaron Ramsdale possibly leaving, Arsenal sees Hein as a crucial part of their goalkeeping future.
#### Amario Cozier-Duberry: The Next Bukayo Saka?
Amario Cozier-Duberry, 19, has been a standout performer in Arsenal’s academy. Likened to Bukayo Saka, Cozier-Duberry scored nine goals in 17 Premier League 2 appearances last season. With 48 goal contributions (30 goals and 18 assists) in 83 appearances for Arsenal Academy since 2021, he is viewed as a future star.
#### Reuell Walters: Ready for First-Team Football
Reuell Walters, also 19, has been part of Mikel Arteta’s matchday squads but has yet to make his senior debut. Walters is keen on securing first-team football, which might tempt him to leave. Despite this, Arsenal remains hopeful of convincing him to stay.
#### Arsenal’s Transfer Plans and Future Prospects
The club’s immediate focus is on retaining these young talents, but they are also making moves in the transfer market. Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, who impressed during his loan spell at Arsenal and won the Golden Glove, is expected to join permanently when the transfer window opens on June 14. With Ramsdale likely to seek first-team opportunities elsewhere, Hein could be in line for a promotion, assuming he renews his contract.
#### What’s Next?
The next few weeks are crucial for Arsenal as they navigate contract negotiations and prepare for the upcoming season. Securing new deals for Hein, Cozier-Duberry, and Walters will be a significant step in maintaining the club’s long-term vision and ensuring a competitive squad for the future.
Stay tuned as Arsenal works diligently to keep their academy stars and strengthen their squad ahead of another challenging Premier League campaign.
