Arsenal lay out plan new signing after announcing striker arrival

The 16-year-old has signed a pre-contract with the Gunners and will join as a first-year scholar, with professional terms to follow when he turns 17 next year.Bernard enjoyed a prolific campaign at Palace last season, scoring more than 40 goals across their academy sides. His form earned him opportunities with the club's Under-18s, where he scored six times in the U18 Premier League despite being one of the youngest players in the group.He is also an England Under-16 international, having scored four goals in eight appearances for his country.Mylo Bernard signs for ArsenalInstagram/newvisionfootballBernard's next challenge will be adapting from schoolboy football to full-time training at Arsenal, with the physical demands of academy football expected to increase significantly. Standard Sport understands that the teenager’s immediate target will be to play as much Under-18 football as possible and continue his goalscoring form throughout the season.He will also hope to help Arsenal enjoy a successful FA Youth Cup campaign while maintaining his place in the England set-up.Alongside his football, Bernard will continue his education by studying for his A-Levels.The teenager confirmed his departure from Palace on Instagram after eight years with the club.“After eight unforgettable years at Crystal Palace, I have decided to say goodbye.“I have grown up playing for Crystal Palace and it has provided so many wonderful moments in blue and red.Read More“Crystal Palace has shaped me as a person and a player becoming a crucial part of my life.Mylo Bernard signs for ArsenalInstagram/newvisionfootball“It has always been a pleasure playing at the club over the last few years and this part of my journey will always have a place with me.“Thank you to all my coaches and teammates that have pushed me to become a better player and have helped me in my journey at the club.“I will forever be grateful for the past eight years I’ve had with this club.”Bernard is the latest addition to an increasingly busy recruitment drive at Hale End, with Arsenal also bringing in young players from several Premier League rivals and clubs across the UK.Georgian teenager Andria Bartishvili is another expected arrival, with the 17-year-old dubbed by some as the “next Khvicha Kvaratskhelia”. He cannot move to England until turning 18 because of post-Brexit regulations, but Arsenal have already agreed a deal with Kolkheti Poti.