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Italian club make contact to hijack Arsenal’s most valuable youth asset

Serie A side Como have emerged as one of the clubs showing strong interest in Arsenal youngster Ethan Nwaneri ahead of the summer transfer window.

Reports claim Cesc Fabregas’ side have made enquiries about the 19-year-old as they look to strengthen following an impressive campaign that secured European football next season.

Como have earned a reputation for targeting some of Europe’s brightest young talents and are understood to view Nwaneri as a player capable of becoming a key part of their long-term project.

The Italian club are expected to face significant competition if they decide to pursue a deal.

A number of Premier League clubs are also monitoring Nwaneri’s situation, with Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Everton among those credited with an interest.

According to reports, Como are open to exploring different structures for a potential deal, including a loan agreement or a permanent transfer.

The club are preparing for the likely departure of Nico Paz, with Real Madrid expected to activate a buy-back clause for the Argentine playmaker this summer.

As a result, Nwaneri has reportedly been identified as one of several players capable of filling the creative void that Paz could leave behind.

The Arsenal academy graduate remains one of the most highly-rated young players at the club.

Nwaneri made history in September 2022 when he became Arsenal’s youngest-ever first-team player after making his senior debut against Brentford at the age of just 15 years and 181 days.

Since then, he has continued his development under Mikel Arteta and is regarded internally as one of the standout products to emerge from Hale End in recent years.

Despite that reputation, speculation surrounding his future has continued due to questions over the amount of first-team football that may be available to him next season.

Arsenal remain strong believers in Nwaneri’s potential and have consistently viewed him as an important part of the club’s future plans.

The teenager’s versatility, technical quality and creativity have made him one of the most sought-after young talents in England.

For now, there is no indication that Arsenal are actively looking to part ways with the midfielder.

However, growing interest from clubs across England and Europe means Nwaneri’s situation is likely to attract plenty of attention during the summer months.

Como may be pushing hard to position themselves at the front of the queue, but any attempt to prise one of Arsenal’s brightest prospects away from North London is unlikely to be straightforward.

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