Two Scottish clubs vie for Arsenal teen as loan options open

Talks have been held as Celtic and Rangers both explore loan options for Arsenal’s 16‑year‑old wonderkid Max Dowman, with the Gunners reportedly open to a January move because regular first‑team minutes look unlikely this season. The teenager has already netted three senior goals and earned a Premier League winners’ medal last campaign.

Dowman, who turned 16 this year, is viewed as a major prospect for the Emirates Stadium, and his early impact has drawn comparisons with fellow England youth star Lamine Yamal. He already featured enough to earn a Premier League winners’ medal last campaign. The forward has also represented England at youth level, underscoring his pedigree.

Eligibility and Arsenal’s stance

According to Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur, the Gunners could be Open to loaning the forward once he becomes eligible on 31 December, when he turns 17. Konur posted on X that over a dozen clubs have contacted Arsenal, and that Arsenal’s limited short‑term first‑team opportunities make a loan sensible. He highlighted that the loan could be arranged in January, aligning with the winter transfer window. The tweet, signed by Ekrem KONUR, reiterated the same points.

Rangers eye Max Dowman as their next Mikey Moore signing

Both Celtic and Rangers have entered discussions with Arsenal, each hoping to secure Dowman’s services for the remainder of the season. The Scottish clubs are among the ‘dozens’ of suitors reported to be monitoring the teenager. Their interest reflects a desire to add a versatile attacker to their squads.

Wider interest and potential impact

The interest extends beyond Scotland; dozens of clubs across Europe have shown curiosity, underscoring Dowman’s rising profile. Konur’s tweet listed ‘Interest → Over a dozen clubs contacted Arsenal’ and noted the situation that Arsenal are Open to a loan given limited first‑team chances. AFC missed out on several big‑name attacking targets this summer, and Bukayo Saka’s recent fitness issues have left a gap that Dowman could fill if given more game time.

If the loan proceeds, Dowman would join his new club in January, but his development hinges on securing regular minutes, while Arsenal must balance his long‑term potential against immediate squad needs. The deal remains contingent on his 17th birthday on 31 December and on both clubs reaching an agreement.