Arsenal plans to Secure Nwaneri with Long-Term Contract deal

London, UK  —  Arsenal is making moves to secure the long-term future of teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri, aiming to prevent rival clubs from luring him away.

According to Daily Mail reports, the club is “closing in” on a new five-year contract for Nwaneri, which would extend his stay at the Emirates until 2030. The proposed deal is designed to reflect his growing status within the first-team squad, a significant upgrade from his initial professional contract signed in March 2023 upon turning 17.

Nwaneri, who made history as Arsenal’s youngest-ever debutant at 15 years old, was officially promoted to the senior team this season alongside his close friend Myles Lewis-Skelly. However, it was the injury-enforced absence of Bukayo Saka since December that granted him regular first-team opportunities—chances he has seized impressively.

With Manchester City and Chelsea previously expressing interest in acquiring the talented youngster, Arsenal is keen to avoid losing a key player who is currently on a developmental contract.

Nwaneri’s debut in 2022 saw him break two historic records—becoming both Arsenal’s youngest-ever player (surpassing Cesc Fabregas’ record) and the youngest footballer to feature in the English Premier League since 1964. He was only 15 years and 181 days old at the time, a feat that would require an extraordinary prodigy to surpass.

Arsenal’s Broader Contract Priorities

While strengthening their squad for next season remains a priority, Arsenal also faces other significant contract negotiations. Key players such as Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, and Gabriel are approaching the final two years of their current deals, making their extensions crucial for the club’s long-term stability.

Arsenal is determined to not only retain its brightest young stars but also ensure the squad remains competitive at the highest level in the years ahead.

By Enoch Odesola | March 23, 2025.