Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a significant update on the future of young talent Ethan Nwaneri, as the club navigates the crucial final weeks of the January transfer window. The Gunners, who top the Premier League and remain in all cup competitions, are linked with both incoming and outgoing deals to bolster their squad for the gruelling run-in.
Arteta's Verdict on Ethan Nwaneri's Arsenal Role
Highly-rated teenager Ethan Nwaneri has seen his first-team opportunities reduce this season, sparking speculation over a potential loan move. The 18-year-old, who signed a new contract last summer, made 11 Premier League starts in the previous campaign but all six of his league appearances this term have been from the substitutes' bench.
This reduction in minutes is largely due to Arsenal's summer recruitment, which saw the arrivals of attackers Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, adding to the club's already strong forward options. Bournemouth have been credited with an interest in taking the versatile forward on loan following the sale of Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City.
Nwaneri was handed a rare start in the recent FA Cup victory over Portsmouth, his fourth of the season, and earned praise from his manager. "He deserved that," Arteta stated. "Because of the strength of the squad and the players that are in the positions, he hasn't been able to play. Today he's done it, and I think he had some very good minutes."
Gunners in Multi-Club Battle for Marseille Prospect
Meanwhile, Arsenal are reportedly embroiled in a fierce transfer battle for Marseille's exciting young winger, Darryl Bakola. According to French publication La Provence, the Gunners are one of several clubs closely monitoring the 18-year-old's situation.
Bakola, who can operate on the wing or in attacking midfield, made his senior debut in January 2025 and has featured ten times for Roberto De Zerbi's side, including a start in a Champions League victory over Newcastle United in November. His current contract runs until 2027, but his future at the Stade Vélodrome is uncertain.
The report indicates that Bakola and teammate Robinio Vaz could depart this month after failing to agree new terms. Bakola has reportedly rejected a contract offer from Marseille, with his representatives unhappy with the proposed wages. The French club, facing financial pressures outlined by president Pablo Longoria, are unwilling to improve their offer and may opt to sell.
Arsenal's interest is far from exclusive, with the teenager also attracting attention from Premier League rivals Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Aston Villa, as well as Eintracht Frankfurt and clubs from Saudi Arabia.
Window Priorities Amidst Packed Fixture List
Arteta's immediate focus is on the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea, but the club's hierarchy continues to assess the market. With a six-point lead at the Premier League summit and progression in the Champions League and both domestic cups, strategic reinforcements could be key to maintaining their challenge on all fronts.
The situation surrounding Nwaneri presents a classic January dilemma: whether to keep a promising academy product for squad depth or sanction a temporary move for vital development. Conversely, the pursuit of a talent like Bakola signals Arsenal's intent to secure the best young prospects, even in the face of significant competition.
