Arsenal big guns move to convince Ethan Nwaneri to snub City and Chelsea

The battle for Nwaneri

Chelsea and Manchester City have joined the battle for Arsenal’s talented youngster, Ethan Nwaneri.

The attacking midfielder, who made Premier League history by becoming its youngest player at just 15 years and 181 days old, is highly regarded as one of England’s top prospects.

Arsenal face a ticking clock to secure Nwaneri’s future, as his schoolboy registration runs out soon.

They need to agree on scholarship terms that would convert into a professional contract when Nwaneri turns 17.

However, the Gunners face stiff competition from the Blues and the Citizens, both known for their high remuneration for academy players.

Nwaneri’s impact at Arsenal

Nwaneri, an England U17 international with Nigerian roots, has been a standout at the Hale End Academy, Arsenal’s youth development setup.

He was given his record-breaking senior debut by manager Mikel Arteta in a match against Brentford last season, where he came on as a substitute during Arsenal’s 3-0 victory.

Under-18s head coach Jack Wilshere has praised Nwaneri, emphasising the importance of the young midfielder’s development at Arsenal.

Despite being in the final week of his schoolboy contract, Arsenal are actively working to persuade Nwaneri to sign a scholarship deal.

Offers and interest

Arsenal’s offer to Nwaneri is reportedly attractive, with key figures like Per Mertesacker, Mikel Arteta, and Edu involved in the talks.

Their proposal outlines a path to the first team for Nwaneri, who also travelled for Arsenal’s mid-season training camp in Dubai.

However, Chelsea and Manchester City are not alone in their interest. Manchester United are also reportedly monitoring the young star’s situation.

What lies ahead

While the Gunners have tied down another talented youngster, Myles Lewis-Skelly, with a scholarship agreement, the future of Nwaneri at Arsenal is still uncertain.

The decision is now in the hands of the young player.

Will he continue his development with Arsenal, or will he seek new opportunities elsewhere?

With fresh talks over a potential extension, Arsenal fans wait with bated breath for his decision.

The player’s performance, whether he stays or leaves, will be carefully observed. Especially considering that any future departure would lead to a tribunal hearing for compensation.