Cesc Fabregas’ Como have emerged as one of the most aggressive suitors for Arsenal’s teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri this summer, according to sources.
The Italian club is pushing hard to secure the 19-year-old attacking midfielder, even as they face stiff competition from up to five Premier League sides. Fabregas is determined to continue his project of attracting elite young talent to Lombardy after guiding Como to an impressive campaign that secured European qualification.
Sources indicate that Como have already made concrete checks on Nwaneri, who made history as Arsenal’s youngest-ever player when he debuted at just 15 years and 181 days old against Brentford in September 2022. With Champions League football on the horizon next season, the ambitious Serie A outfit sees the England youth international as a key target to elevate the squad to the next level.
Flexible approach from Como
TEAMtalk understands Como are open to a variety of deal structures, including a loan with an option to buy or a straight permanent transfer. The club views Nwaneri as a prime candidate to help fill the creative void left by the expected departure of Nico Paz, with Real Madrid set to activate their buy-back clause for the Argentine playmaker.
Nwaneri’s situation at Arsenal has become increasingly uncertain. While he remains hugely admired within the club and is still regarded as one of the brightest talents to emerge from the Hale End academy in recent years, sources close to the player highlight concerns over the amount of first-team minutes he is likely to receive under Mikel Arteta next season.
That uncertainty has triggered significant interest from across Europe and the Premier League.
Premier League interest intensifies
In addition to Como, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Everton are among the Premier League clubs showing strong interest, primarily exploring permanent deals. Newcastle have been long-term admirers of Nwaneri’s versatility and technical quality, while Villa and Everton are monitoring developments closely as they look to bolster their attacking options.
There is also notable interest in loan moves from newly-promoted sides Coventry City and Ipswich Town, who would offer the teenager regular senior football and a more central role.
Meanwhile, Bundesliga heavyweights Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are also keeping tabs on the situation. Dortmund, in particular, have tracked Nwaneri for several years and believe consistent first-team exposure could help him develop into a top-level attacking player.
A rare talent
At just 19, Nwaneri is already considered by many scouts as one of the most naturally gifted young attacking midfielders in Europe. His ability to play centrally or on the flanks, combined with his composure on the ball and creativity in the final third, makes him a highly attractive prospect.
Arsenal now face a pivotal decision. Although the Gunners are reluctant to part ways with one of their most exciting academy graduates, the player’s desire for regular playing time — coupled with the growing interest from rival clubs — means serious discussions are expected in the coming weeks.
As Arsenal prepare for what could be a transformative summer, the potential departure of Nwaneri represents one of the more difficult calls the club will have to make. The historic prodigy who broke records at 15 may now be on the verge of an unexpected new chapter — potentially even in the Champions League with Cesc Fabregas’ rising Como side.