Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown claims one Arsenal player is attempting to generate outside interest to gain a contractual advantage
Arsenal
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Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly is at the centre of contract negotiations, with his representatives reportedly using interest from other clubs as leverage to secure improved terms at the Emirates.
According to Football Insider, former Manchester United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown claims the player’s camp is attempting to generate outside interest to strengthen their position in talks with Arsenal. Brown, who remains highly connected in the football world, believes the tactic is a common ploy used to increase a player’s market value and bargaining power.
The 18-year-old, who is under contract until the summer of 2026, is seen as a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s long-term plans. The Arsenal boss is reportedly keen to tie the versatile left-back down to a new deal and is prepared to make assurances regarding his playing time and development.
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Reports have recently linked Lewis-Skelly with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid, sparking speculation about a potential departure. However, Brown insists such links are more strategic than substantive.
Myles Lewis-Skelly (Image credit: Getty Images)
“It’s a ploy from the player’s camp to drum up interest,” Brown told Football Insider. “If you can put out that Real Madrid, Barcelona or whoever are looking at the player, it makes him more valuable to Arsenal and they have to put more money on the table.”
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Brown added that the Gunners are in a strong position and are actively working to secure a new contract for the England youth international. “They won’t want to see him run down his contract because Mikel Arteta sees him as an important player. He’ll tell him as much and make promises over his playing time.”
Despite the noise surrounding outside interest, Brown believes the situation will be resolved in Arsenal’s favour. “Ultimately, the decision will be made by the player. His team and agents can do all the talking they like, but if he wants to stay at Arsenal, he’s going to stay at Arsenal. I think that’s where all of this is heading — it shouldn’t be too much of an issue.”
Lewis-Skelly is one of several players Arsenal are in talks with over new deals as the club looks to secure its core talents ahead of the new campaign.