Chelsea fighting to sign ‘unbelievable’ record breaking youngster, could get him for free

Add as preferred source on Google

Chelsea are fighting to sign Ethan Nwaneri from Arsenal – although the Blues face competition from Manchester City.

That is according to the Evening Standard.

So, what is the latest on Ethan Nwaneri and Chelsea? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well, it is said that Arsenal are yet to agree scholarship terms with the 16-year-old wonderkid, who has been described as an “absolutely unbelievable” talent.

The Gunners have until Friday to strike a deal with Nwaneri – who became the youngest Premier League player in history when Mikel Arteta subbed him on against Brentford back in September, aged 15 years and 181 days.

If the north Londoners fail to tie their wonderkid down before Friday – which is when his schoolboy registration expires – then Chelsea or Manchester City would technically be able to sign him on a free transfer.

The Blues or the Citizens would – however – have to pay the Gunners a compensation fee, which would be decided at a tribunal due to Arsenal’s work in developing the England Under-17 international.

Nwaneri has an attractive offer on the table from Arsenal – according to the Evening Standard – with Academy Manager Per Mertesacker and Arteta involved in discussions to keep him at the Emirates Stadium.

Nwaneri would be a statement signing by Chelsea

It seems odd to describe a 16-year-old as a statement signing for any side, although it really would speak volumes if Chelsea managed to pinch Nwaneri from Arsenal.

The London-born prodigy is widely regarded as the most promising youngster at any Premier League side, and if the Blues pinched him from a rival, like they did when signing Omari Hutchinson from Arsenal last year, it would send out a message to the rest of England’s top-flight, especially after that 12th-place finish.

One thing Chelsea must do if they are to sign Nwaneri – however – is lay out a clear plan to get him involved under Mauricio Pochettino, as the Evening Standard believe Arsenal have already drawn out a pathway into the first-team for him.

Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Arsenal have until Friday to strike a deal.