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Forget Max Dowman, £21m gem Arsenal are in talks to sign is also on Lionel Messi’s wonderkids list

Lionel Messi has named 10 young players to keep an eye on for the future. The Argentine is arguably the greatest footballer of all time…

By Shamanth Jayaram · Arsenal Insider

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 7:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Arsenal are in talks with Club Tijuana to sign 17-year-old Gilberto Mora, who Lionel Messi named as a top wonderkid.
Mora reportedly holds a $28 million (£21m) release clause for a permanent transfer.
Lionel Messi also selected 16-year-old Arsenal academy prospect Max Dowman on his 10-player list.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Arsenal are reportedly in talks with Club Tijuana to sign 17-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora, who was named by Lionel Messi in an Adidas campaign featuring 10 top wonderkids. The list also included Arsenal academy sensation Max Dowman, highlighting the club's growing collection of elite young talent.

Mora reportedly possesses a $28 million (£21m) release clause in his contract and is represented by Rafaela Pimenta. Competing interest from European clubs including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund, and Benfica could prompt Arsenal to pursue a permanent transfer as early as the January window.

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Forget Max Dowman, £21m gem Arsenal are in talks to sign is also on Lionel Messi’s wonderkids list

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