Exclusive: Arsenal reach agreement on first professional contract with prodigy pursued by Manchester City…

Arsenal have reached an agreement on the first professional contract with rising star Ethan Nwaneri, who has attracted interest from Manchester City.

Sources have informed Football Insider that the Gunners are now optimistic about securing the long-term future of the 16-year-old wonderkid, despite attention from Chelsea and Manchester City.

Nwaneri showcased his potential by making a 13-minute appearance as a substitute in Arsenal’s impressive 6-0 victory over West Ham on Sunday, 11 February.

The talented youngster has already committed to signing a professional deal with the club when he reaches the age of 17 next month at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners secured a resounding 6-0 victory against West Ham on Sunday (11 February), with the 16-year-old talent making a 13-minute appearance off the bench.

Nwaneri, who will turn 17 next month, has already committed to signing a professional contract at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has high hopes for the young midfielder in the upcoming 2023-24 season and beyond.

Reliable sources have revealed that Nwaneri has earned the trust and admiration of the established first-team players, who recognize his exceptional talent. Despite interest from Chelsea and Manchester City, Nwaneri’s professional contract will deter any immediate approaches.

However, both Premier League powerhouses will continue to monitor his progress in case his involvement with the first team stalls. Manchester City had previously expressed confidence in signing Nwaneri, but that confidence has waned.

His recent substitute appearance against West Ham marked only his second senior outing. Last season, Nwaneri became the youngest-ever Premier League player at the age of 15 years and 181 days when he made his debut off the bench against Brentford.

Last season, the Gunners granted him the title of the youngest-ever Premier League player when he made an appearance off the bench against Brentford at the tender age of 15 years and 181 days.

In the ongoing 2023-24 campaign, Nwaneri has showcased his talent by scoring an impressive 11 goals in 10 age-group games, despite primarily playing in attacking midfield.

Another promising talent, 17-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly, has also made strides within the Arsenal ranks. Although he has been involved with the senior squad this season, he is yet to make his debut for the first team.

In other news, Arsenal has joined Newcastle United in the pursuit of a Premier League star.

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