Arsenal preparing long-term contracts for two of Mikel Arteta's young stars?

Lewis-Skelly has emerged as a viable left-back option for Mikel Arteta, having featured in 26 competitive matches this term.

The 18-year-old has started nine of his 14 Premier League appearances, including Sunday's 1-0 win over North London rivals Chelsea.

Nwaneri had to settle for a substitute role against the Blues, but he has still earned the chance to make 29 appearances, contributing eight competitive goals during that period.

As a result of their success at club level, 18-year-old Lewis-Skelly was named in Thomas Tuchel's England squad, while Nwaneri has been called up to Lee Carsley's Under-21 side.

Arsenal preparing Lewis-Skelly, Nwaneri deals

With Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri's stock continuing to rise, The Times are reporting that Arsenal are keen to hand new contracts to their young stars.

Arsenal will want to offer them contracts that reflect their current status with the pair still on their first professional deals.

Lewis-Skelly is out of contract in the summer of 2023, while 17-year-old Nwaneri only signed his first professional contract in March 2024.

Arsenal boss Arteta will be keen to secure the duo's long-term future and ward off any potential transfer interest.

Who else is in line for new Arsenal contract?

Incoming sporting director Andrea Berta is likely to take responsibility for overseeing contract negotiations with Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri.

The Gunners are also believed to be keen to agree new deals with William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes and Bukayo Saka, who are all out of contract in 2026.

They have previously held informal discussions with Gabriel, who is attracting interest from Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.

Gabriel is believed to be keen to stay in North London, although he could pursue a move to Saudi Arabia in the future.

The North London club are yet to hold talks with Saka and Saliba, with the latter happy at the Emirates despite being a reported target for Real Madrid.

Written by

Ben Sully