Ethan Nwaneri close to signing new Arsenal contract with teenager set for new role after serving as Bukayo Saka's backup

According to The Athletic, Arsenal have entered into the closing stages of talks with Nwaneri over a new contract and the teenager is now ready to commit his long-term future to the club. Having previously been utilised on the right wing during Bukayo Saka's absence through injury, it is now believed Nwaneri will play more centrally and provide competition to club captain Martin Odegaard, who suffered a dip in form affected by injuries last season.

Nwaneri has fewer than 12 months left on his current contract and has attracted major interest from sides around Europe who were plotting a free transfer. Arsenal weren't allowed to offer the youngster a new deal until he turned 18 in March, but he has been away on holiday and represented the England Under-21s in that time. However, Nwaneri has always prioritised staying at the Emirates Stadium and, after contract talks intensified following his return from the Under-21s European Championship, is set to sign new terms.

Nwaneri enjoyed a breakout campaign under Mikel Arteta during the 2024-25 campaign, contributing nine goals and two assists. He previously became the youngest player ever to feature in a Premier League match when he made his debut against Brentford aged 15 years and 181 days in 2022.

Arsenal have moved swiftly to improve their squad during the summer transfer window. Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard have all arrived in north London in recent weeks, while they are expected to complete a move for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres imminently.