Former Tottenham Hotspur captain Michael Dawson has warned his nephew Joey Dawson that joining Arsenal would be a mistake for the 16-year old, although it could all be tongue-in-cheek given his personal loyalties. 

Joey Dawson became Scunthorpe United's youngest ever player at 16 years, 75 days when the Irons hosted Derby County in the EFL Cup on 13th August.

Despite United bowing out 1-0 to the Rams, Dawson who came on as a substitute in the last 16 minutes has appeared to have caught the eye of one Premier League giant.

The Sun reported last weekend that Arsenal are said to be interested in bringing the teenager to North London, in a surprising transfer deal.

The 16-year old is the son of former Scunthorpe United and Hull City defender Andy Dawson and the nephew of current Nottingham Forest centre-back Michael.

Michael Dawson, who is currently in his second stint at the City Ground, made 324 appearances for Arsenal's fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur between 2004-2015.

Reacting to the speculation, Dawson told talkSPORT, as quoted by Grimsby Telegraph: "When I saw that [rumour] the other day I thought he’s signing for the wrong side in north London!

"He’s 16, who started [as an academy scholar] in July and then got the opportunity at Scunthorpe with Paul Hurst and Chris Doig."

Speaking of his nephew's talent, Dawson, 35, said: "He’s good on the ball and as he’s young; if he keeps his head down, keeps working, you never know where that will lead."

The Verdict

Despite only playing 16 senior minutes Joey Dawson has certainly caused a stir, with the link to Arsenal.

His uncle Michael Dawson will have certainly pleased Spurs fans with his comments and has made it clear where he'd rather his nephew end up.

Scunthorpe, however, must know they have a real player on their hands, as such attracting interest from a big club.

The Irons will have to be careful and hope to receive a better fee than the one Exeter City did in 2018 for Ethan Ampadu but like with a lot of this cases they may have to settle a fee through a tribunal if the Gunners were to snap up the youngster.