Myles Lewis-Skelly
Image credit: Getty Images
Real Madrid’s pursuit of Arsenal rising star Myles Lewis-Skelly appears to be over, as the 18-year-old has reaffirmed his commitment to the Gunners following a formal approach from the Spanish champions.
According to a recent update fromHand of Ozil on X, Lewis-Skelly’s representatives informed Madrid that he is firmly focused on continuing his development in North London, describing him as “the future of Arsenal Football Club.”
The teenage sensation has enjoyed a breakout season at left-back, making 39 appearances across all competitions, including 23 in the Premier League, with one goal and three assists. His commanding displays, particularly in Arsenal’s 5-1 aggregate triumph over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals, drew the attention of Madrid’s new manager, Xabi Alonso.
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In the 3-0 first-leg victory at the Emirates, Lewis-Skelly completed 54 of 57 passes, won 9 of 11 duels, and delivered a key assist. Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo described his performance as “mature” and “damaging in attack.”
Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly against Jude Bellingham
Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly against Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham (Image credit: Getty Images)
The Guardian reported on May 29 that Madrid were showing “serious interest” in the England international, whose contract runs until June 2026. A day later, The Sun added that contract talks between Arsenal and Lewis-Skelly were “not going well,” fuelling speculation that Los Blancos could make a move. Teamtalk even suggested Madrid were considering replicating their recent signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold by targeting Lewis-Skelly on a free transfer if talks remained stalled into next year.
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However, those ambitions have now been thwarted. As revealed by Hand of Ozil, Real Madrid’s formal inquiry into the player’s future was met with a firm response — Lewis-Skelly is staying put. Despite earlier concerns over stalled negotiations, Arsenal now believe they are close to tying him down to a new long-term deal before the 2025/26 season, with sporting director Andrea Berta leading the talks.
So Real Madrid did indeed approach the Myles camp as BIG clubs do for SPECIAL players.
Standard business procedure to understand his future plans… they were politely told he is the future of Arsenal Football Club.
Long term deal for MLS ⏳ https://t.co/O50xoljSbw
— HandofArsenal (@HandofArsenal) June 4, 2025
Manager Mikel Arteta has been vocal in his admiration for the teenager, calling him a “generational talent” with “special charisma.” Arteta has relied heavily on Lewis-Skelly in high-stakes matches, including both legs of the quarter-final against Madrid. His tactical versatility, ability to operate in both midfield and defence, and his composure under pressure have made him a cornerstone of the squad’s future.
Madrid’s interest in Lewis-Skelly surfaced as Arsenal prepare for a reshuffle at left-back. Oleksandr Zinchenko is expected to depart this summer, with The Telegraph reporting interest from Bayern Munich, Newcastle United, and AS Monaco in a deal worth between £20 million and £25 million.
But for now, securing Lewis-Skelly’s future is a major priority and a significant win for Arsenal, as they look to build a squad capable of contending for both domestic and European honours in the years ahead.
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