Arsenal in advanced Ethan Nwaneri talks with RB Leipzig

Arsenal are in advanced talks with RB Leipzig over the future of Ethan Nwaneri, with the Bundesliga club emerging as favourites to sign the highly-rated midfielder this summer.

According to journalist Carlo Pellegatti, negotiations between Arsenal and Leipzig are progressing well, although the Gunners are determined to retain long-term control over one of their brightest academy graduates.

A buy-back clause is reportedly being discussed as part of the deal.

Pellegatti, speaking on his YouTube channel and relayed by MilanNews, claims Arsenal are already in advanced discussions with RB Leipzig.

The Bundesliga side have moved ahead of AC Milan and several other clubs that have been linked with the England youth international.

Pellegatti said: "Arsenal has yet to decide whether to send him to another team or how to manage the player's future. But Arsenal would like to, and are already talking about it – talks have taken place and are at an advanced stage – with Leipzig."

Rather than permanently losing one of their most talented prospects, Arsenal are reportedly exploring the possibility of including a buy-back clause in any agreement.

According to Pellegatti, the Gunners could allow Nwaneri to continue his development in Germany before retaining the option to re-sign him in the future.

He added: "Leave him there for a year, maybe another year, and then buy him back for €55-€60m."

Whether Leipzig would agree to such a clause remains unclear.

Nwaneri spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Marseille, but the move failed to deliver the regular first-team football Arsenal had hoped for.

The 19-year-old made only nine Ligue 1 appearances after enjoying a promising breakthrough campaign at the Emirates, where he contributed to six goals during the 2024/25 season.

Leipzig's reputation for developing young players could now make the Bundesliga club an attractive destination for the midfielder as he looks to rebuild his momentum.

Arsenal and RB Leipzig are expected to continue negotiations as they work towards an agreement. A final decision could depend on whether the Bundesliga club are willing to accept Arsenal's proposed buy-back clause as part of the transfer.