Wales Under-21 international Aaron Ramsey has completed his move from Cardiff City to Arsenal for an undisclosed fee.

The 17-year-old spurned interest from champions Manchester United and Everton to pen a long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium, where he will join his new team-mates for pre-season training next month.

"We're delighted to have signed Aaron Ramsey," Gunners boss Arsene Wenger told the club's official website. "He is a young player who has shown huge potential with his performances for both Cardiff City and Wales at Under-17 and Under-21 levels.

"He is still only 17, but has already shown that he is a very intelligent and mature player with great quality. Although he mainly plays in midfield, Aaron is a versatile player and can also play across the defence.

"We are all looking forward to welcoming Aaron to the club for our pre-season preparations."

Ramsey (pictured, right) said: "I'm so happy to have signed for Arsenal. I am joining one of the biggest clubs in the world and can't wait to meet my new team mates.

"I recently met with Arsene Wenger and he was a big factor in my decision to join Arsenal. He talked to me for a long time about the club and the plans for the future, which really excites me.

"Arsenal is a club which always gives young players an opportunity at the highest level of the game and I am going to work my hardest to be part of future successes here.

"It was a really difficult decision to leave Cardiff City, they are my local club with great supporters and I would just like thank everyone at Cardiff City for their support and help in my early career. I will still look out for their results and there will always be a place in my heart for the Bluebirds."

Ramsey is the youngest player to represent his country at Under-21 level and has been called up to the senior squad - for recent friendly matches against Iceland and Holland - though he was an unused substitute in both games.

Having come through the ranks at Cardiff, the midfielder made his debut in the 2006-07 season, and has made a total of 22 appearances for the Bluebirds, including one as a substitute in last season's FA Cup final against Portsmouth at Wembley.

Mike Hytner / Eurosport