Arsenal youngster Ethan Nwaneri has held ‘positive talks’ over a potential loan move to a Champions League club.
Ethan Nwaneri enjoyed a breakout campaign last season under Mikel Arteta, making 37 appearances in all competitions and scoring nine goals. His performances earned him a new long-term contract in August 2025.
This season, the arrivals of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke have increased competition in the attacking positions, and Nwaneri has struggled to build momentum despite Arsenal competing across four competitions.
Ethan Nwaneri has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates.placeholder image
Ethan Nwaneri has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
In total, he has made 12 appearances this season, scoring once in the Carabao Cup. All six of his Premier League outings have come from the bench, while he has started just once in the Champions League.
Marseille are now looking to capitalise on the situation and are exploring a loan move for the remainder of the season. According to the Athletic, no agreement has been finalised, but Marseille head coach Roberto De Zerbi has held positive discussions with both Nwaneri and Arteta.
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Arsenal have no intention of selling the teenager and would only sanction a straight loan, with no option to buy included.
While other clubs have shown interest, Arsenal are understood to be attracted to the Marseille proposal due to De Zerbi’s playing style and his track record of developing young players.
Marseille currently sit third in Ligue 1 and are 16th in the Champions League standings, with a home fixture against Liverpool on Wednesday night.
Any loan deal would include a fee linked to Nwaneri’s appearances, with a final decision expected in the coming days as Arsenal weigh up the best pathway to secure him more regular minutes.
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