For football clubs, the fix for areas of need can often be found within, as academy products provide a cheaper alternative to big-money additions. That rings especially true ahead of a summer of uncertainty. Here’s a look at one internal solution for each of Europe’s biggest sides, as these youngsters could end up saving their respective clubs millions.
Premier League
Arsenal
- Player: Folarin Balogun
- Position: Forward
- Age: 18
If Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leaves this summer, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta could promote from within to help Eddie Nketiah back up Alexandre Lacazette under the assumption that Gabriel Martinelli plays out wide. In Balogun and Tyreece John-Jules, Arteta has two options, and while both have their plaudits, Balogun is a clinical finisher with explosive pace. He potted 25 goals for the Under-18s before banging in 10 during 15 matches in the Premier League 2 this year.
Chelsea
- Player: Billy Gilmour
- Position: Midfielder
- Age: 18
Diminutive in size but gargantuan in ability, Chelsea‘s Gilmour burst onto the scene this season with successive Man of the Match displays in a 2-0 cup win over Liverpool and a 4-0 battering of Everton, his first league start. Blessed with immense vision and technical ability, the Scotsman starred at the …read more