Ethan Nwaneri isn’t close to signing a new long-term contract at Arsenal and is subsequently attracting interest from Manchester City and Liverpool, Arsenal Insider understands.
The Hale End graduate has enjoyed an impressive breakthrough season for the Gunners, scoring nine goals across all competitions despite only turning 18 in March.
There have been reports that Arsenal are eager to reward Nwaneri for this form with a new long-term contract, but progress on this front has been overstated.
His current deal expires next summer, and the Gunners are eager to secure the teenager’s long-term future, but are now at risk of losing him.
Ethan Nwaneri isn’t close to signing a new long-term contract at Arsenal
Nwaneri has experienced a spectacular debut season in senior football, and it’s no surprise that top clubs are lurking and looking to pounce on the uncertainty around him by swooping in.
Arsenal were confident of tying him down to a new deal not long ago, but Arsenal Insider can reveal that this is no longer the case.
Nwaneri’s camp has reservations about the role that he might play in the squad next season, with the Gunners eager to sign two new forwards.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey told Arsenal Insider that the situation is ‘worrying’ for the North Londoners.
“Nwaneri is a worrying situation for Arsenal, he does have only two years left on his deal – I can confirm that,” he said.
“Arsenal thought he would be done and dusted and agreed by this stage, but it is not straightforward.
“We need to keep an eye on this, Arsenal remain calm and are confident but it is a thing.
“Arsenal know they can’t allow this to become a saga.”
Arsenal need to be careful with their transfer strategy to protect Ethan Nwaneri’s pathway
While many fans want Arsenal to find a winger who can play on both sides and a midfielder who can provide cover and competition for Martin Odegaard, the North London club need to be wary about how this could impact Nwaneri.
Nwaneri thrived on the right wing in Bukayo Saka’s absence and has earned the right to be the established understudy to the England international, while he should also be considered the Odegaard back-up.
Signing another player who can cover these two positions would further reduce Nwaneri’s minutes, and it would subsequently be no surprise to see him push for a move.
Arsenal should undoubtedly be looking to strengthen the left-hand side of their attack and bring in a new number nine, but signing a right-sided attacking midfielder or winger certainly won’t bolster their chances of retaining one of their most promising young talents in years.
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