Just when Arsenal fans thought this summer might bring some exits, it looks like one of the club’s brightest young talents is edging closer to sticking around.
After a breakout season and a wave of transfer whispers, Ethan Nwaneri is now reportedly on the verge of agreeing to a fresh deal with his boyhood club.
From Uncertain Future to Renewed Commitment
There had been a fair amount of chatter that Nwaneri could be on his way out, especially with some concerns over whether he’d get consistent playing time next season.
But according to multiple sources, including transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the 18-year-old is now leaning toward staying — and it’s thanks, in part, to the clear project Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has laid out for him.
Arteta, who famously handed Nwaneri his historic debut at just 15 years old, has been working behind the scenes to reassure the youngster about his role in the team moving forward. And it seems the talks have paid off.
Fabrizio Romano Shares the Latest Update
Fabrizio Romano took to social media on Saturday to give fans a hopeful update:
“Understand Arsenal have made progress in the recent days for Ethan Nwaneri’s new deal.
The club has presented vision/project for Nwaneri in the upcoming years including discussions on game time.
Arsenal hopeful to get green light and sign new contract soon.”
While nothing has been officially signed yet, this is a promising development.
Arsenal are clearly serious about securing their future core, and Nwaneri is a big part of that puzzle.
A Breakout Season Earned Him a Bigger Role
In the 2024–25 season, Nwaneri made 37 appearances across all competitions, finding the net nine times.
Injuries across Arsenal’s forward line opened the door for more opportunities — and the young attacker certainly took his chance, proving he can be more than just a future star.
He’s not just a product of the academy anymore — he’s starting to look like a regular contributor to the first team.
Arsenal Locking In Their Future Stars
The move to secure Nwaneri follows another major youth extension.
Fellow academy talent Myles Lewis-Skelly recently signed a long-term deal that keeps him at the Emirates until 2030.
Defender Gabriel has also committed his future to the club through 2029.
With these renewals, Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are sending a clear message: Arsenal are building for the long term.
Incoming Transfers: Madueke and Kepa?
Beyond contract renewals, Arsenal have been active in the transfer market as well.
They’re reportedly closing in on Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, adding more depth and attacking firepower.
They’ve already brought in goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea to serve as backup to David Raya.
It’s clear the Gunners are planning for both the present and the future — building depth while keeping faith in their rising stars.
The Viktor Gyokeres Drama Unfolds
Meanwhile, in one of the more dramatic sagas of the summer, Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres is pushing hard for a move to Arsenal.
According to The Athletic, the 26-year-old has refused to report for pre-season training with Sporting Lisbon — apparently feeling betrayed by the club president, who he believes has gone back on a verbal agreement to let him leave.
Gyokeres is said to have already agreed to personal terms with Arsenal, who have made a significant offer: €65 million plus another €15m in add-ons.
However, Sporting are standing firm on their demand for a fixed €70m.
Gyokeres vs Sporting: Who Blinks First?
The situation is tense. Gyokeres feels he has an “honour agreement” with the club that should allow him to leave for a lower fee, and Arsenal’s offer has technically already exceeded that mark.
Still, Sporting president Frederico Varandas isn’t budging.
It’s a standoff now — and with the striker refusing to train, the pressure is mounting.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
While the Nwaneri news is a welcome boost for Arsenal fans, the club’s summer business is far from over.
More signings could be on the way, and there’s no telling how the Gyokeres saga will end.
What’s clear is that Arsenal aren’t just resting on last season’s success.
Arteta and the club’s leadership are moving with purpose — tying down talent, strengthening weak spots, and making sure the Gunners remain competitive at the highest level.