Arsenal is on the brink of finalizing a new five-year contract for rising star Ethan Nwaneri, ensuring his long-term future at the club. The 18-year-old attacker has impressed this season, stepping up in the absence of Bukayo Saka and contributing eight goals and one assist across 29 appearances.
Despite his stellar form, Nwaneri was not included in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad but is set to feature for the Under-21s during the March international break. His rapid rise has exceeded Arsenal’s expectations, prompting the club to reward him with an extended deal.
Nwaneri first made headlines in 2022 when he became the youngest-ever Premier League player at just 15 years and 181 days. Both Chelsea and Manchester City showed interest in signing him, but Arsenal secured his first professional contract last year. Now, with the player having turned 18, the club can offer a longer-term agreement.
According to reports, Arsenal and Nwaneri are close to agreeing on a new contract that will run until 2030. His current deal, signed last year, is set to expire in 2027, but Arsenal is eager to lock down one of their most promising talents.
Nwaneri, who has been with Arsenal since 2015, is the club’s third-highest scorer this season, behind Saka (nine goals) and Kai Havertz (15 goals). He could make his England Under-21 debut against France before returning to Arsenal action in a Premier League clash with Fulham on April 1.
Arsenal is also working to extend the contracts of other key players. Talks are expected with Saka, Gabriel Magalhaes, and William Saliba, who are all tied to the club until 2027 but have drawn interest from major European clubs. The Gunners remain committed to securing their core players early, continuing the strategy established during Edu’s tenure and now under Andrea Berta’s leadership.