Marseille seal Ethan Nwaneri loan deal with Arsenal

Arsenal have agreed a loan deal with French side Marseille for teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, who will spend the rest of the season in Ligue 1.

The 18-year-old is expected to link up with Marseille after Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Inter Milan on Tuesday night, with the deal set to be completed on Wednesday.

PM NEWS learnt that the agreement involves a significant loan fee, tied to appearances, but no option to buy at the end of the season.

The move is understood to be driven by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who wants Nwaneri to develop under Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi, a manager admired for his attacking philosophy and youth development.

Nwaneri has struggled for regular playing time at the Emirates this season, starting just four matches across all competitions and making his last Premier League appearance in November. He has also been left out of Arsenal’s last four league squads.

Despite interest from other Premier League and European clubs, Marseille moved fastest to secure the youngster’s signature.

The England youth international enjoyed more opportunities last season when injuries to Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard opened up space in Arsenal’s midfield.

Nwaneri made history in September 2022 when he became the youngest player ever to feature in the Premier League, coming on against Brentford at just 15 years and 181 days. He has since made 50 first-team appearances, scoring 10 goals.

Speaking earlier this month, Arteta played down concerns over the teenager’s reduced role.

“Every player has a role. That role can change during the season. It’s part of the journey,” the Arsenal boss said.

If completed, Nwaneri will join a growing list of Arsenal players to have passed through Marseille, including William Saliba, Matteo Guendouzi and Nuno Tavares.

The midfielder signed a new five-year contract with Arsenal in August, underlining the club’s long-term belief in his potential.