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Arsenal are at risk of missing out on teenage sensation Jeremy Monga, with Manchester City now reportedly moving to secure a deal for the 16-year-old winger.
The Gunners were believed to be leading the chase for Monga, who ranks as the third youngest player in Premier League history behind Max Dowman and Ethan Nwaneri. He made his debut for Leicester City at just 15 years and 271 days in April 2025, before going on to make 27 appearances in the EFL Championship throughout last season.
The Athletic reports that Manchester City are now "working to complete a deal" for Monga, who predominantly plays on the left wing. He is set to sign his first professional contract with Leicester upon turning 17 next week, which will enable the Foxes to demand a transfer fee.
That asking price is believed to be around £10 million ($13.4 million), a figure considered too steep for Arsenal, leaving the door ajar for Manchester City to swoop in.
The Gunners had been engaged in "club-to-club contact" with Leicester, but are now described by Fabrizio Romano as being "definitely out of the race."
Enzo Maresca Capitalizes on Arsenal Hesitance
Manchester City appear to have new manager Enzo Maresca to thank for "driving" their interest in Monga, with the youngster having been on his radar for quite some time.
According to The Athletic, Maresca kept close tabs on Monga during his own spell in charge at Leicester. The teenager never featured for the first team while Maresca managed the club during the 2023–24 season, yet he clearly made a lasting impression on the Italian coach.
What role Monga would play at Manchester City next season remains uncertain. Jérémy Doku has the left wing position firmly in his grasp and is backed by a flexible group of players capable of covering, including Omar Marmoush and Phil Foden.
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Monga, one of English football's most exciting young prospects, could serve as the primary backup to Doku, though regular starting opportunities seem unlikely at his age, and youth team football offers little benefit at this stage. That said, Leicester's relegation last season means the alternative would be playing in League One in 2026–27.
Brentford had also been monitoring the situation, which would have been an intriguing option for Monga given the club's strong track record in nurturing young talent. However, Manchester City appear to have done enough to win the race.