Arsenal - Mehmet Ali
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Arsenal midfielder Ethan Nwaneri is reportedly taking time to assess his long-term future as contract negotiations with the club continue, according toThe Telegraph. The 17-year-old, who enjoyed a breakout season in 2024/25, is seeking assurances over playing time before committing to a new deal.
Nwaneri made 37 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring nine goals and impressing with his maturity and versatility. Despite being deployed in an unfamiliar role on the right wing due to Bukayo Saka’s injury absence, the teenager’s impact went far beyond the statistics. Once Saka returned to full fitness, however, Nwaneri saw his minutes reduced significantly.
“There are moments when players are used more or less, and he’s played a lot—probably more than anybody expected,” manager Mikel Arteta said in May. “In the last few games, it was because of the games and the context that we decided not to play him as much. It can change very quickly.”
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While such a drop in involvement might not typically raise concerns, the situation is complicated by the fact that Nwaneri has just one year remaining on his current contract. The highly-rated midfielder is now seeking clarity on his role within Arteta’s plans before signing an extension.
Ethan Nwaneri - Mikel Arteta
Ethan Nwaneri (Image credit: Getty Images)
Nwaneri previously signed a scholarship deal in 2023 after turning down interest from Manchester City and Chelsea. He committed to his first professional contract in March 2024, but the current uncertainty surrounding his long-term future has reignited interest from rival clubs.
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Chelsea, who are already in negotiations with Arsenal over the potential transfer of winger Noni Madueke, have reportedly made an enquiry about Nwaneri during those discussions. Arsenal and Madueke are believed to have agreed personal terms, but the two clubs remain apart on valuation, with Chelsea demanding £50 million for the 23-year-old.
The situation is further complicated by Arsenal’s active pursuit of attacking reinforcements. The club has been linked with high-profile names such as Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, and Chelsea’s Madueke. Additionally, the emergence of 15-year-old academy sensation Max Dowman, who is set to be involved in pre-season has added another layer of competition for attacking midfield roles.
Despite the uncertainty, reports suggest that Nwaneri’s preference is to remain at Arsenal, and recent progress in extension talks offers hope for a resolution. However, with increased competition for places and his future hanging in the balance, the teenager is understandably taking time to weigh all his options.
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