Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Ethan Nwaneri Set to Sign New Long-Term Deal with Arsenal

The 18-Year-Old Is Close to Signing a Long-Term Contract As Arsenal Fend Off Interests.

Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Arsenal are on the verge of securing the long-term future of Ethan Nwaneri. The 18-year-old midfielder is nearing singing a new contract despite strong interest from Chelsea and multiple Bundesliga clubs. Negotiations with Nwaneri’s representatives are said to be in the final stages.

Reportedly, a four-year deal plus an option for an additional year has been agreed in principle. Nwaneri joined the Gunners’ academy at just eight years old. Since then, he has emerged as one of the club’s brightest talents.

🚨🔴⚪️ Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle with Ethan Nwaneri over new deal!

After progress in talks reported last weekend, Nwaneri and his camp have now agreed to sign new contract at the club.

Ethan always gave priority to #AFC despite interest from several clubs. pic.twitter.com/xURXQ3UbfQ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 16, 2025

He has had a breakthrough season where he scored nine goals in 37 appearances. Since then, the England Under-21 player has attracted attention from Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund. However, Arsenal remained confident of keeping their young star.

According to BBC Sport, the new deal will see Nwaneri receive a significant pay rise. The increased money will position him among the highest-paid teenagers in world football. His current contract was set to expire next summer. It sparked fears that he could leave on a free transfer.

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But the Gunners’ hierarchy have worked diligently to secure his signature. They would like to avoid losing another academy product. Nwaneri made headlines in September 2022 when he became the youngest player in Premier League history at 15 years and 181 days old during a 3-0 win over Brentford.

Since then, Nwaneri has amassed 39 senior appearances for Arsenal in all competitions. He scored nine goals and provided two assists in that time. Nwaneri’s new deal shows that Arsenal are keen on building around their next generation of stars.

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Arsenal Building for the Future With Ethan Nwaneri

Mikel Arteta’s faith in youth has been a driving factor behind Nwaneri’s decision to stay. The Spaniard is reportedly planning to use Nwaneri more centrally next season. Arteta has already played him out wide during Bukayo Saka’s injury absence last term.

Nwaneri recently helped England’s Under-21 side win the European Championship in Slovakia. Due to that, he has been given an extended break. However, he is expected to join Arsenal’s squad for their pre-season tour of Asia later this week.

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Moumita Dutta

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Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.