Arsenal have moved swiftly to secure the future of their prized young talent, Ethan Nwaneri, amidst a crippling injury crisis that has decimated their attacking options.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news via his YouTube channel, stating that an agreement is close between the club and the 17-year-old attacking midfielder.
The urgency to finalize Nwaneri’s extension has been heightened by a season-ending injury to Kai Havertz, sustained on Wednesday.
This blow compounds Arsenal’s woes, as they are already without key players Gabriel Jesus (out for the season), Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli (both sidelined for several weeks).
Nwaneri’s emergence as a potential first-team option comes at a crucial time for manager Mikel Arteta. The young midfielder has impressed throughout the season, showcasing his talent across various competitions.
His seven goals in 23 appearances are a testament to his potential to contribute at the senior level.
Romano’s update on Nwaneri’s contract situation offered a glimmer of positive news amidst the gloom surrounding the club’s injury list.
“Kai Havertz out for the rest of the season, Martinelli, Bukayo Saka are out for weeks, and Gabriel Jesus is out for the rest of the season,” Romano explained.
“Now they (Arsenal) have available the young superstar Ethan Nwaneri, who is going to extend the contract because the contacts are very positive. So Arsenal are working in that but obviously he’s a very young kid, he’s doing fantastic.”
With Nwaneri’s current contract expiring in June 2026, Arsenal were keen to tie him down to a longer deal, warding off interest from other clubs.