Martin Keown claims Mikel Arteta has ‘almost made a new signing’ amid Arsenal transfer prediction

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Ethan Nwaneri was able to step up for Arsenal on his first Premier League start vs Brentford. 

With Bukayo Saka out injured, Ethan Nwaneri deputised for the Arsenal winger on the right flank against Brentford on New Year’s Day. 

Making his first Premier League start, the 17-year-old was able to deliver for the Gunners. Nwaneri was Arsenal’s stand out player, as he performed with a fearless confidence that belied his youth. 

The teenager has been exciting fans of the North London club for some time, and now looks ready to star on the Premier League stage on a regular basis. 

• READ MORE: Every Arsenal academy player to make their senior debuts under Mikel Arteta

Martin Keown hails Arsenal wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri

After the match, Mikel Arteta praised Nwaneri’s performance. The Spanish coach even seemed to suggest that he won’t need to dip into the January transfer market for a Saka replacement, with the Hale End academy gem able to provide an internal solution. 

To at least some extent, Martin Keown agreed with Arteta’s assessment. 

Speaking on TNT Sports (01/01/2025, 20:06), the iconic former Arsenal defender was full of praise for Nwaneri’s display. However, he admitted that he still expects the Gunners to make signings this month.

Keown said: “He’s [Arteta] made it clear that he loves his players… He’s almost made a new signing tonight by introducing a player from the academy, but I still think they’ll go into the market.”

Nwaneri stuns Arsenal fans vs Brentford

Many Arsenal fans X were quick to hail Nwaneri after his display against the Bees.

One said: “Ethan Nwaneri just looks ready…Sometimes you see a player and the way they move, the way they carry themselves… they’re ready. The sort of player that Sir Alex or Wenger would have no hesitation throwing into the fire on a consistent basis. Arteta needs to too!”

Another stated: “The treatment of Nwaneri by the manager has been brilliant.”

One Arsenal supporter claimed: “Good showing from Nwaneri. Really confident on the ball, looked to beat his man when he could. Took his chance very well after being handed his first PL start. Looks the best bet so far over on the right hand side in Saka’s absence.”

Another added: “Nwaneri urgency when we attack is so refreshing compared to everyone else slowing it down.”