Arsenal has ramped up efforts to sign Sverre Nypan, the highly-rated 18-year-old Rosenborg midfielder, who is also a target for Manchester City.
Nypan, with over 50 senior appearances for Rosenborg, is considered one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
According to reports, the Norwegian prodigy could be available for a modest fee of £10 million, with a January transfer likely due to the Norwegian off-season.
The Athletic reports that Arsenal has made significant progress in negotiations with both Rosenborg and the player’s representatives.
The club is optimistic that club captain and fellow Norwegian Martin Ødegaard could play a key role in persuading Nypan to choose the Emirates over other options.
If a deal materializes, Nypan is expected to join Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad immediately, despite his relatively limited experience.
Meanwhile, Manchester City remains interested in the teenager. Reports suggest City plans to loan Nypan to one of their affiliated clubs before introducing him to their senior setup.
Nypan is rumored to be traveling to Manchester in the coming days for discussions with the reigning Premier League champions.
This potential signing would mark another head-to-head battle between Arsenal and City in the transfer market.
Arsenal already looks poised to beat City in securing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who is nearing a summer move to the Gunners.
With long-term injuries sidelining Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka, Arsenal remains active in the transfer market. Arteta recently emphasized the club’s urgency to bolster the squad.
“If we can find the right player, we will act,” Arteta said during a press conference. “We’re looking for someone who can immediately improve the team. We’ve been stretched thin with injuries, and reinforcements are necessary.”
City, on the other hand, has had a productive January window, securing Eintracht Frankfurt forward Omar Marmoush along with defenders Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis.