Arsenal given boost as top academy talent to sign contract extension amid exit rumours - Reports

According to journalist David Ornstein, top Arsenal academy talent Ethan Nwaneri has committed his long-term future to the club. The youngster was subject of interest from Chelsea and Manchester City.

Nwaneri has agreed a scholarship contract and a new pro lead when he turns 17, Ornstein reported. He tweeted:

"Ethan Nwaneri has committed future to Arsenal by signing scholarship terms + agreeing pro deal when turns 17. Major interest from other clubs but 16yo never wanted to leave - lifelong #AFC fan & Islington born/bred. Huge boost for Gunners."

The youngster created Premier League history when he made an appearance as a substitute against Brentford in September 2022. The Gunners won the game 3-0. Nwaneri was 15 years and 181 days old at the time, becoming the youngest player to play in the Premier League.

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Kai Havertz explains decision to take No. 29 shirt at Arsenal

The Gunners recently secured Kai Havertz's signature from Chelsea for £65 million. Havertz arrives as a UEFA Champions League winner with the Blues and has ample experience in English football, too.

The German will wear the No. 29 jersey during the 2023-24 season. He was asked about his choice of shirt number by the Gunners media in his first interview for the club. Havertz replied (via the Gunners' website):

"I have had it now for many years. I chose it when I became professional in Germany, and since then, it's always given me luck. When I became professional I took it because it has some history with my brother.

"We used to take it always when we played some video games together. I think it's the perfect number!"

Havertz made 139 appearances for the Blues, scoring 32 goals and providing 15 assists. He often underperformed when deployed as a striker. Whether he can find his form in a deeper role under Mikel Arteta remains to be seen.