Arsenal is poised to give 16-year-old goalkeeper Jack Porter his debut in the Carabao Cup third-round match against Bolton Wanderers on Wednesday.
First-choice keeper David Raya suffered a knee injury during last weekend’s 2-2 draw at Manchester City, leaving him doubtful for the upcoming fixture.
With summer loan signing Neto cup-tied and 18-year-old Tommy Setford also sidelined due to injury, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is likely to turn to Porter, who just celebrated his 16th birthday in July.
Porter has previously trained with the first team and was on the bench for last week’s goalless draw in the Champions League against Atalanta.
Having signed scholarship terms with the club this summer, he cannot officially sign a professional contract until he turns 17 next year.
On transfer deadline day, Arsenal sought to acquire two goalkeepers after allowing Aaron Ramsdale to transfer to Southampton and sending Karl Hein on loan to Real Valladolid.
Although they secured Neto, they attempted to negotiate deals for Joan García from Espanyol and Dan Bentley from Wolves, but both efforts fell through.
Arteta is anticipated to rotate his squad for the clash with Bolton, potentially including youngsters like Ethan Nwaneri and Miles Lewis-Skelly, while Raheem Sterling may also make his first start after joining on a season-long loan from Chelsea.