Chelsea Keep Tabs on Ethan Nwaneri as Arsenal Contract Talks Stall

Chelsea are watching Arsenal’s young player Ethan Nwaneri closely. The Blues are ready to make a move if contract talks between Nwaneri and Arsenal don’t work out. Nwaneri, who wants more playing time at Arsenal, has no desire to sign a new contract without improvement in his game time further complicating the discussions.

According to a previous report, Ethan Nwaneri scored eight goals in 29 games for Arsenal this season.

WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH NWANERI?

Nwaneri, who celebrated his 18th birthday in March 2025, has started playing a bigger role in Arsenal’s plans but is yet to agree to a new contract as of now. Part of the delay is due to FA rules that limit contract lengths for players under 18 and also because Nwaneri has been with England’s Under-21 European Championship team. Chelsea’s interest only adds to the pressure Arsenal are facing to tie the youngster down quickly.

ARSENAL’S SEASON AND NWANERI’S RISE

This season, Arsenal secured 70 points in the Premier League, ending second in the standings. Nwaneri made headlines after scoring his first senior goals in the Carabao Cup. The highly-rated midfielder has enjoyed increased minutes as the campaign went on and remains one of the most celebrated youngsters in English football at the moment.

According to a previous report, Arsenal finished second in the Premier League in the 2024-25 season.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE TRANSFER SAGA?

If Arsenal fail to assure Nwaneri of regular playing time, Chelsea are expected to make a formal approach for the teenager. Nwaneri’s contract runs until 2026 but with Arsenal showing little intent to send him on loan, it remains uncertain if he will get more chances in the senior team next season. However, his age and potential means he could rise up Arsenal’s ranks in the forthcoming campaigns.

He signed a contract that runs until 2026.