Arsenal forward Nathan Butler-Oyedeji is set to leave the club this summer, bringing an end to his time with the Gunners as his contract expires next month.
The 22-year-old, who was seen as a rising talent within the club’s academy, made first-team appearances this season, yet will now pursue opportunities elsewhere.
Of Nigerian descent, Butler-Oyedeji’s departure comes as something of a surprise given his recent elevation into senior football.
He featured in Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb and also made a Premier League appearance against Ipswich Town, offering glimpses of promise and versatility in attack.
His progress through the youth ranks had been viewed positively by the club’s technical staff, making the decision not to renew his contract particularly notable.
His exit is part of a wider reshuffle within Arsenal’s development squad. Midfielders Jimi Gower and Jack Henry-Francis are also expected to leave when their deals expire at the end of June, according to a report from Arsenal youth football expert Jeorge Bird.
Both players were regularly involved with the Under-21 side and earned places on the bench for several senior fixtures over the course of the 2024/25 campaign.
While their time in North London is drawing to a close, all three players are likely to attract interest across the English Football League and beyond.
With professional experience under their belts and strong reputations within academy circles, they are expected to receive multiple offers in the coming weeks.
Arsenal continue to focus on restructuring their youth system, with an emphasis on making space for emerging talent while allowing others to seek first-team football elsewhere.
