Mikel Arteta has compared Max Dowman to Lionel Messi after it was announced the 16-year-old English sensation will sign a professional contract with Arsenal.Dowman, who made his debut in Arsenal's 5-0 win against Leeds in August aged 15 years and 234 days, has reached a pre-agreement at the north London club which will tick over into a pro deal when he turns 17 on December 31.

Mikel Arteta has compared Max Dowman to Lionel Messi after it was announced the 16-year-old English sensation will sign a professional contract with Arsenal.Dowman, who made his debut in Arsenal's 5-0 win against Leeds in August aged 15 years and 234 days, has reached a pre-agreement at the north London club which will tick over into a pro deal when he turns 17 on December 31.