Why Antonio Nusa has Arsenal, Spurs and Newcastle fighting for his signature

Norway’s impressive run at the 2026 World Cup has pushed several of their stars into the spotlight, but while Erling Haaland continues to dominate headlines, another attacking talent is attracting serious Premier League interest.

Antonio Nusa, who is of Nigerian descent, has emerged as one of the tournament’s most exciting young players, with Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United all reportedly monitoring the RB Leipzig winger ahead of a potential summer move.

Norway have exceeded expectations in the tournament, navigating their way to the quarter-finals where they will face Thomas Tuchel’s England for a place in the last four. With Haaland leading the attack, Stale Solbakken’s side have become one of the competition’s biggest stories.

Haaland’s extraordinary scoring record remains the centre of attention. The Manchester City striker has scored 62 goals in just 54 international appearances, but his impact has also been helped by the creativity and unpredictability of the players around him.

Nusa has been that difference-maker.

Although the 21-year-old is no longer an unknown name in European football, Haaland’s global reputation often overshadows the contributions of his international teammates. However, his performances for both club and country have made it increasingly difficult for Europe’s biggest clubs to ignore him.

Newcastle see Nusa as key attacking solution

Newcastle appear to be among the clubs most determined to secure his signature after a summer of major changes.

The Magpies are searching for attacking reinforcements following Anthony Gordon’s move to Barcelona, while the potential departure of key midfield figures has increased the need for fresh quality in Eddie Howe’s squad.

Reports suggest Leipzig could demand around £51 million for Nusa, a significant increase on the £18 million they paid Club Brugge to sign him in August 2024.

Despite the price tag, Arsenal and Tottenham have reportedly not been discouraged, having previously shown interest in the Norwegian before his move to Germany.

For the north London clubs, Nusa represents the type of dynamic wide player capable of adding another dimension to their attacking systems.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta values players who can operate in tight spaces, create chances and contribute without the ball, while Tottenham are also looking for explosive attacking options who can provide greater unpredictability in the final third.

Direct running makes Nusa a nightmare for defenders

Nusa’s biggest strength is his ability to attack defenders directly.

The winger possesses explosive acceleration and is comfortable taking responsibility in one-on-one situations. Whether cutting inside onto his stronger foot or attacking the outside channel, he constantly puts defenders under pressure.

His fearless approach has made him one of Norway’s most dangerous weapons at the World Cup. He scored in Norway’s 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in the round of 32 and has continued to trouble opponents with his movement and creativity.

Defenders have quickly learned that giving Nusa even a small amount of space can be costly.

At Leipzig, he has recorded 10 goals and 10 assists in 71 appearances across all competitions over two seasons. For a wide player still developing his game, those numbers highlight his attacking potential.

He has also created 75 chances, including 21 considered big chances, showing his ability to influence matches beyond simply scoring goals.

A complete winger with defensive discipline

One reason Nusa appeals to clubs such as Arsenal and Tottenham is that his game is not limited to attacking output.

The Norwegian winger has shown a willingness to contribute defensively, recording 208 ball recoveries and making 624 attempts in one-on-one duels during his time at Leipzig.

He has also won 41 of the 71 tackles he attempted, demonstrating a commitment to the defensive side of the game that modern elite managers demand.

That quality could prove crucial for a move to the Premier League, where managers expect wide players to contribute both in attack and defence.

Arteta, in particular, has built Arsenal around intensity, pressing and defensive responsibility from every position, while Tottenham’s tactical approach also requires attackers to work hard without possession.

Nusa’s ability to combine speed, creativity and work rate makes him an attractive profile for clubs looking to compete at the highest level.