Arsenal transfer news: Ethan Nwaneri agent reacts to 'lies' about playing time demands to Mikel Arteta during contract talks

The agent of Arsenal teenager Ethan Nwaneri has reportedly dismissed claims that his contract extension was tied to guarantees about playing time.

Boss Mikel Arteta looks to be adding significantly to his squad depth, with striker Viktor Gyokeres nearing a transfer to the Emirates.

The Londoners have already signed the likes of Martin Zubimendi to the team, and the Gunners manager will hope that his side can challenge for the Premier League title next term.

Additionally, the Spaniard was boosted by the news that youngster Nwaneri had signed a five-year contract to stay at the club, ending speculation that he would leave upon the expiry of his previous deal in the summer of 2026.

Rumours suggested that the 18-year-old was convinced to stay at Arsenal after he sought guarantees in regard to playing time, but talkSPORT pundit Dean Saunders has claimed that Nwaneri's agent, who is also his father, clarified that no such demands were made.

Will Nwaneri get playing time at Arsenal?

Nwaneri enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2024-25, stepping into the team when stars like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli picked up injuries.

The teenager started 11 times - playing 26 games - in the Premier League while scoring four goals and providing two assists, with the Englishman operating as either a right-winger or an attacking midfielder.

It is important to note that Nwaneri is unlikely to feature much on the right should Saka stay fit for the upcoming campaign, and it is difficult to see him making many appearances in midfield due to the presence of captain Martin Odegaard.

If Arsenal complete the signing of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, the teenager's chances of appearing in the starting XI would be reduced further, and he may have to settle for a place on the bench in the immediate future.

What does Nwaneri's long-term future at the Emirates look like?

Though Nwaneri will face fierce competition for minutes in 2025-26, his age means that he can afford to be patient if he ultimately wishes to remain at the Emirates.

Odegaard appears to have the trust of Arteta, but the midfielder was criticised last season, and another campaign of subpar performances could lead to his place being in jeopardy.

Regardless, Nwaneri is certain to be a key part of Arsenal's long-term future, and his creative prowess could serve them well if they continue to feature a more direct goal threat at centre-forward.

Written by
Lewis Nolan