Arsenal Brace for January Bidding War Over Record-Breaking Midfielder
Arsenal are reportedly anticipating that several Premier League teams will inquire about 18-year-old midfielder Ethan Nwaneri during the upcoming January transfer window.
Following his historic debut as the competition's youngest-ever player in September 2022 at just 15 years and 181 days old, Nwaneri became a consistent member of Arteta's squad rotation, accumulating 37 appearances across all tournaments last season and earning a new extended contract. However, his playing time has significantly diminished this campaign.
With Arsenal strengthening their attacking options through the summer acquisitions of Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyökeres, Nwaneri hasn't secured a Premier League starting position this season and has managed only 19 minutes of action throughout December. His presence on the senior squad bench has also prevented him from participating with the club's youth teams during this stretch.
Unsurprisingly, Nwaneri's diminished involvement has sparked considerable speculation about a player who remains on the radar of several top European clubs. Chelsea had pursued his services prior to his contract renewal, with numerous other teams also linked as potential destinations.
According to The Times, Arsenal recognize that discussions regarding Nwaneri's situation are anticipated to emerge in January.
Multiple Premier League clubs are expected to approach Arsenal regarding a possible loan arrangement for Nwaneri, while The Athletic reports that 19-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly might also attract interest after experiencing a comparable struggle for playing opportunities.
Arteta Yet to Decide on January Exits
Arsenal's position regarding both Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly's futures remains undetermined but is relatively predictable. The duo, considered among England's most promising young talents in recent years, both secured new five-year deals over the summer, demonstrating the club's long-term faith in their potential.
For the immediate future, though, numerous supporters have suggested that Nwaneri specifically would gain from a temporary departure—particularly given Arteta's indication of interest in acquiring additional players when the January window commences.
When questioned about Arteta's willingness to allow player departures this winter, the manager stated: "We evaluate every circumstance. I delegate much of that responsibility to Andrea [Berta, sporting director] to monitor market developments.
"Regarding individual players, naturally, we must assess our position with each one and determine the optimal arrangement."
Arteta has consistently emphasized his preference for maintaining a substantial squad with ample rotation possibilities, especially during the season's concluding months when exhaustion becomes a significant factor, but may reach his final verdict on Nwaneri following discussions with the young player.