Ethan Nwaneri breaks silence after ‘Arsenal contract concern’
Ethan Nwaneri shared an update with supporters as uncertainty continues to surround his Arsenal future.
The highly-rated youngster broke into Mikel Arteta’s first-team last season, earning starts even ahead of experienced names like Raheem Sterling when injuries left the squad stretched.
Nwaneri, still only 18, enjoyed a breakout campaign with nine goals and two assists across all competitions, establishing himself as one of the club’s brightest prospects.
However, with just one year remaining on his current deal, concern is growing at Arsenal regarding Nwaneri’s contract.
FA rules prevent players under the age of 18 from signing contracts longer than three years, which has left the Gunners vulnerable to interest from Premier League rivals as he now enters his final year.
While there is optimism around fresh contract talks, no agreement has been reached, leaving the situation in limbo.
Amid the speculation, Nwaneri shared an update with Arsenal fans on social media, posting about his current activities as discussions over his future continue behind the scenes.
Ethan Nwaneri sends update to Arsenal fans amid contract uncertainty
The 18-year-old has kept himself busy since the season came to a close, recently representing England’s under-21s.
Lee Carsley’s England side were crowned U21 European Champions after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Germany.
Following fresh reports that Arsenal have made little progress over a new contract, Nwaneri shared an Instagram post featuring a photo of himself doing kick-ups, accompanied by a battery emoji — a possible nod to staying sharp during the off-season.
The young forward enjoyed an outstanding campaign for the Gunners, with Nwaneri nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award thanks to his performances.
He played a pivotal role in his first full senior season, racking up 37 appearances across all competitions and scoring notable goals against Manchester City and Brighton.
While fellow academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly signed a new Arsenal deal and was in the same contractual situation as Nwaneri, questions remain over whether Nwaneri will follow suit and sign an extended deal with the club he has developed at.
Arsenal confident in Viktor Gyokeres transfer pursuit
As contract negotiations with current players continue, the club are also working to strengthen their squad, with their search for a new striker finally progressing.
Football Insider revealed that Arsenal are closing in on a deal for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and are increasingly confident an agreement can be finalised.
While Arsenal also explored moves for Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins, it appears their pursuit of the Swedish forward has now advanced, putting them ahead of competition from the likes of Man United.