Arsenal are on the verge of finalising a new long-term contract for 17-year-old wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri. The Gunners have been in negotiations with the young star regarding a five-year extension, with discussions reportedly close to reaching a conclusion.
According to FootballTransfers, talks over the new deal, which would keep Nwaneri at the Emirates Stadium until 2030, began in early August. However, due to FIFA regulations, the teenager cannot sign a contract longer than three years until he turns 18 in March 2025. As a result, Arsenal fans will need to remain patient until the deal is fully completed.
Ethan Nwaneri has been regarded as one of Arsenal’s brightest prospects since joining the club’s Hale End academy at the age of nine. His rapid development has drawn comparisons to England international Jude Bellingham, thanks to his exceptional technical skills and mature playing style.
The young midfielder has consistently impressed at the youth level, netting 14 goals in 15 appearances, and is now beginning to make his mark in senior football. Nwaneri’s breakout performances this season have caught the attention of Arsenal’s top brass, with regular communications between his representatives, manager Mikel Arteta, sporting director Edu Gaspar, and academy manager Per Mertesacker.
Mertesacker has been full of praise for Nwaneri’s ability, previously commenting, “Ethan has a strong ability to master the ball and dominate possession, which is what we are all about at Arsenal.”
Nwaneri has already made a significant impact during his first-team appearances this season. He scored twice in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Brentford in the Carabao Cup and has impressed in the Premier League with substitute appearances in high-profile matches, including the North London Derby and the recent 4-2 win over Leicester City.
There are even rumours circulating that Nwaneri could be handed his first Champions League start by Mikel Arteta in Arsenal’s upcoming clash against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.
With his immense potential and growing influence on the pitch, securing Nwaneri’s long-term future will be seen as a major coup for the Gunners as they continue to nurture one of English football’s most exciting young talents.