The 15-year-old has attracted interest from several clubs but has joined the Gunners after a fee - reported to be around �200,000 - was agreed.

Freeman, who turns 16 in March, has signed a two-year deal to become part of Arsenal's youth set-up on their schoolboy/scholar scheme.

"This is a great opportunity for me," he said.

Freeman became the youngest player ever to feature in the FA Cup in November and added: "I thank Gillingham for everything they did but I am now hoping to be a success with Arsenal."

West Ham and Newcastle were among the other clubs to have targeted him.

Gillingham chairman Paul Scally said: "It is a shame for Gillingham to lose a special talent such as Luke but we cannot stand in the way of such a fantastic opportunity.

"Arsenal have gone about their business in a fair and commendable way so it was a pleasure to do the deal with them.