Arsenal have secured the long-term future of highly rated midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, with the 17-year-old reportedly agreeing to a new five-year contract, according to The Telegraph.
The development marks a significant boost for the Gunners, who have been working behind the scenes for weeks to tie down the academy product amid growing interest from rival clubs.
Nwaneri, born in England to Nigerian parents, is considered one of the brightest prospects in English football.
His Nigerian heritage has drawn interest from fans of the Super Eagles, who continue to monitor his international career decisions closely, though he has thus far represented England at youth level.
Talks between Arsenal and Nwaneri’s representatives had been ongoing for several weeks, with the early stages of negotiations described as “difficult.”
The uncertainty surrounding his future reportedly prompted interest from Chelsea and other Premier League sides keen to exploit the impasse.
Despite the speculation, Arsenal made it clear they were not open to entertaining offers for the teenager.
A breakthrough in discussions was achieved in recent days, and the agreement was finalised swiftly once both parties aligned on key terms.
The contract is set to keep Nwaneri at the Emirates until at least 2030, and a formal announcement is expected soon.
Nwaneri made headlines in September 2022 when he became the youngest player to feature in a Premier League match, debuting for Arsenal at just 15 years old.
He has since continued to develop under the club’s watch, balancing first-team exposure with youth-level competition.
Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal hierarchy are understood to view Nwaneri as a cornerstone of their long-term project, with the player’s technical quality and football intelligence earning praise within the club.
