Ex-Arsenal youngster with coolest name signs contract extension with Pafos

Former Arsenal youngster, Vlad Dragomir, has committed his future to Pafos, extending his contract with the Cypriot club until 2028.

That’s according to Digi Sport, who also report that the 25-year-old Romanian international, who joined Pafos in 2021, now has 110 appearances for the club (12 goals, eight assists).

The Cypriot side announced on Saturday that Dragomir, whose previous deal was due to expire at the end of the current season, has signed on for another four years.

This season, Dragomir has already made 16 appearances, contributing four goals and two assists.

Once dubbed ‘Mesut Ozil’s heir’ by the Romanian press, Dragomir, who spent part of his formative years at Arsenal, joined the Gunners from ACS Poli Timișoara in 2016 for €115,000.

During his time at Arsenal, Dragomir featured regularly for the club’s U23 side in Premier League 2, showing glimpses of his technical ability and versatility in midfield with six goals and two assists.

Despite high hopes, he never managed to break into the first team due to the intense competition for places.

In 2019, Dragomir claimed he refused a contract from Arsenal and it was his decision to leave the club rather than theirs.

“Yes, I noticed what was said then,” he replied when asked about the rumours Arsenal had got rid of him when Unai Emery arrived. “But I don’t really notice these things.

“The truth matters: It was my decision to leave there, to move completely. I can say that I refused a contract from them.

“Arsenal wanted to extend, yes. But, I stayed and thought about what I really want and on the street I want to go, and in the last year it was shown that I made the right decision.”

In 2018, Dragomir joined Serie B side Perugia on a free transfer.

At Perugia, Dragomir made a solid impact, featuring in over 60 matches and becoming a key figure in their midfield over two seasons.

His performances in Italy demonstrated his growth as a player, showcasing his vision, passing range, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.

However, in 2020, he left Perugia and, after a short stint with Virtus Entella, signed with Pafos in 2021.

In addition to his domestic contributions, Dragomir played a key role in Pafos’ success in the Conference League preliminaries against CFR Cluj, particularly in their emphatic 3-0 second-leg win. Digi Sport highlighted his influence as ‘decisive’ in these matches, helping secure Pafos’ progress in the competition.

With this new contract, Dragomir’s future seems secure in Cyprus, and his performances continue to draw attention as he builds on his earlier promise seen during his time in the Arsenal academy.

Now 25, however, it seems the window for him to fulfil that promise is closing.