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Ethan Nwaneri open to Arsenal stay unless Premier League move emerges
England Under-21 midfielder Ethan Nwaneri is keen to remain at Arsenal, but the 19-year-old could reconsider his position if an attractive offer arrives from another Premier League club before the summer transfer window closes.
According to Sky Sports UK, Nwaneri would prefer to stay at Emirates Stadium rather than move abroad again. The highly rated attacking midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at Marseille, making four starts in all competitions.
His future remains uncertain, however, and Nwaneri is yet to make an appearance this season. He was not included in Arsenal’s squad for the Community Shield meeting with Manchester City or the Premier League opener against Coventry City.
For now, the Hale End Academy graduate is expected to remain with the Gunners. That could change during the final days of the transfer window if a suitable opportunity presents itself elsewhere in the Premier League.
Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta want Nwaneri to play regular first-team football this season, with more consistent opportunities potentially available away from north London. Newcastle United are reportedly very interested in signing him on loan.
Nwaneri currently has four years remaining on his Arsenal contract. He has scored 10 goals and provided two assists in 51 appearances for the London club.
The situation leaves Arsenal balancing the value of retaining one of their highly rated young players with the need to ensure he receives sufficient senior football. Nwaneri’s preference is understood to be staying with the club unless a Premier League proposal is considered sufficiently attractive to change his mind.
His previous loan spell at Marseille did not result in a regular starting role, with the midfielder making only four starts during the second half of the campaign. That limited playing time is understood to be a factor in his reluctance to move overseas again.
Arsenal have yet to include him in their matchday plans this term, adding to speculation surrounding his position in Arteta’s squad. Nevertheless, unless another Premier League club makes a proposal that appeals to both Nwaneri and Arsenal, he is likely to stay at the Emirates Stadium.
Newcastle United’s reported interest could therefore become significant as the deadline approaches, particularly if a loan move is viewed as the best way for Nwaneri to secure regular first-team football.
Nwaneri, who is of Nigerian descent and represents England Under-21s, has developed through Arsenal’s Hale End Academy and remains under contract with the club until 2030.
