According to sources that spoke to ESPN, Marseille and Arsenal have agreed to recruit 18-year-old midfielder Ethan Nwaneri on loan until the conclusion of the current campaign. The Gunners, who are chasing trophies on four fronts, were initially hesitant to let Nwaneri leave the team, but they now think that the 18-year-old’s growth could be best served by a stint away.
This season, Nwaneri has only started four games—just one since November 4. According to sources, Marseille is prepared to pay Nwaneri’s wage, but since he is seen as a crucial component of Arsenal’s long-term goals, there would be no choice or requirement to make the transfer permanent.
Manager Mikel Arteta stated that they will talk to Nwaneri about the transfer this week following Arsenal’s Champions League victory against Inter Milan later on Tuesday. “We certainly have to assess the situation,” Arteta said to the press. “Obviously, Ethan isn’t getting the playing time he needs and deserves for his age. This week, we’re going to have a meeting to discuss the matter and get everyone’s input.
Arsenal sensation Ethan Nwaneri is set to join Marseille on loan
🚨 Marseille reach agreement with Arsenal to sign Ethan Nwaneri on loan. #OM hope 18yo travels after #AFC game at Inter in #UCL, potentially Weds. Sizeable fee but reduces based on games. Arteta drove move for attacker to work under De Zerbi @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/dT2AvO1S7Y
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) January 20, 2026
Nwaneri was being pursued by a number of teams, including Crystal Palace and AFC Bournemouth, but according to reports, Marseille’s Roberto de Zerbi-led style of play was deemed especially appropriate for the England under-21 international. According to ESPN sources, the athlete is also drawn to their Champions League credentials. According to ESPN sources, Marseille has been aggressively seeking a No. 10 this window.
Nwaneri started ten of the fifteen games from January to April of last season when Bukayo Saka was out with a hamstring injury. Last summer, he inked a new deal that will keep him with the team until 2030. Nwaneri’s playing time has been limited, though, as the Gunners added Eberechi Eze to strengthen Arsenal’s centre offensive positions and recruited Noni Madueke from Chelsea in the summer to relieve Saka.
After witnessing his team’s many injuries this season, Gunners manager Mikel Arteta had earlier stated that no player would go this month. However, reports claim the team is now willing to let Nwaneri go.
