Chelsea Monitors Arsenal Ethan Nwaneri Contract Talks

Chelsea are closely monitoring the contract situation of Arsenal's 18-year-old attacking prodigy Ethan Nwaneri and are prepared to make a move if Arsenal fails to secure his long-term commitment. Nwaneri, who became the youngest-ever Premier League player in 2022 and enjoyed a breakthrough 2024/25 season with 37 appearances and nine goals, is reportedly seeking guaranteed first-team football before signing a new five-year deal. Arsenal has delayed finalizing a long-term extension due to FA regulations limiting underage contracts and ongoing efforts to reassure Nwaneri about his role amid the club's pursuit of other attacking reinforcements, including Chelsea’s Noni Madueke. Although Arsenal and Nwaneri remain in talks and the player is believed to want to stay, Chelsea’s interest remains contingent on Arsenal failing to finalize a deal. The two clubs maintain good relations, which has so far kept Chelsea from making a hard push, but they remain ready to capitalize on any opportunity. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s pursuit of Madueke from Chelsea adds another layer to the dynamic between the clubs this transfer window.