Softfootball understands that Olympique Marseille has formally submitted a mortgage bid for Arsenal teen Ethan Nwaneri, proposing a deal till June 2026 with no possibility to purchase, as reported by Fabrizio Romano through his official X account.
He posted:
Olympique Marseille official bid to Arsenal for Ethan Nwaneri: mortgage till June, no purchase possibility clause, wage lined. Mortgage charge over €3m however based mostly on participant’s appearances as Nwaneri needs common recreation time. Arsenal are open to debate phrases with negotiations underway.
Arsenal, which just lately performed a 0-0 draw towards Nottingham Forest and a 3-2 victory towards Chelsea, is open to talks, seeing the transfer as a great step for the younger midfielder’s growth with out impacting their long-term plans.
The Gunners have made it clear that any mortgage gained’t embody a purchase order clause, displaying they nonetheless imagine Nwaneri may be very a lot a part of their future.
The 18-year-old, who made historical past as Arsenal’s youngest Premier League debutant at 15 years and 181 days, has struggled for enjoying time this season. He’s solely made 12 appearances in 2025–26, as summer season signings Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke have stored him on the sidelines.
Arsenal’s teaching workers, together with Mikel Arteta, again the transfer, viewing it as a optimistic step. They’re significantly inspired by Roberto De Zerbi’s attacking type at Marseille, which inserts nicely with Nwaneri’s artistic and versatile recreation.
Marseille, who’re third in Ligue 1, see him as a key addition to bolster their assault alongside Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The Stade Vélodrome membership can be making ready for a Champions League conflict with Liverpool, which exhibits simply how excessive the extent of competitors could be if Nwaneri joins. He would instantly step into intense home and European video games, which could possibly be an enormous check but in addition an necessary probability to develop.
In the meantime, Crystal Palace and West Ham United have proven curiosity too. Palace made enquiries, and West Ham tried to signal him earlier this month. However Arsenal appear to favour Marseille, primarily due to the tactical match and De Zerbi’s status, making the French facet the probably vacation spot if the deal goes by.
