'Deal on' – Romano issues update on contract situation of Arsenal gem monitored by Eric Chelle

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has provided a fresh update on the contract situation of Nigeria target Ethan Nwaneri, amid ongoing negotiations to extend his stay at the Emirates Stadium.

Nwaneri is among the dual-national players being monitored by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle before the resumption of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

However, neither the Nigeria Football Federation nor Eric Chelle himself has reached out to the midfielder, his representatives or his family at this time.

The 18-year-old, who enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Mikel Arteta's side, is reportedly in talks with the club to secure a long-term contract and fend off mounting interest from rival European clubs.

Nwaneri made a significant impression during the 2024/25 season, featuring in 37 matches across all competitions, scoring nine goals and registering two assists.

His performances have underlined his reputation as one of the most promising talents to emerge from Arsenal's Hale End academy in recent years.

Despite mutual interest in finalizing a contract extension, Arsenal are yet to complete the deal.

Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, stated that the club remains calm and confident about extending Nwaneri's deal, as well as that of fellow academy talent Myles Lewis-Skelly.

"Arsenal are very calm, relaxed, confident and optimistic on the contract extension of Lewis-Skelly and also Ethan Nwaneri" Romano said. 

"The idea of Arsenal is to extend both players' contract. They are obviously very happy with them. Two gems from the academy."

Romano added that the negotiations are currently focused on the financial structure of the new deal, emphasizing the confidence of the club to keep the youngster at the club.

"Arsenal wants to trust them for present and future. The message is very clear. Also, financially they are working on that and the deal is absolutely on," he added.

As the Gunners prepare for the 2025/26 season, Nwaneri will aim to build on his recent success and cement his place in the first team—while finalizing terms that reflect his growing importance at the club.

Adeyemi Adewale

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