New signings are not the only thing to get excited about this summer for Arsenal fans, some vital contracts have been secured.
The latest comes in the form of two young stars. Arsenal have confirmed that exciting young talents Ethan Nwaneri (18) and Andre Harriman-Annous (17) have both signed new long-term contracts with the club, underlining the Gunners’ commitment to building for the future.
The news follows on from the earlier summer announcement that fellow academy star Myles Lewis-Skelly had also put pen to paper on fresh terms. Together, the trio represent some of the most highly rated prospects from Hale End, and securing their futures has been a priority for Arsenal’s recruitment team.
Nwaneri, who made history as the youngest player to appear in the Premier League back in 2022, has continued to impress in the academy and first-team environment. His technical quality, vision and composure have seen him earmarked as a player capable of making a real impact at senior level in the coming years.
On signing the deal, Ethan said: “Signing this contract means everything to me. I see this as my first real season in men’s senior football, as part of the squad in the changing room. I’m so excited for what I can bring to the team, I want to help us win as much as possible and bring happiness and glory to the club. This is where I feel at home.”
Harriman-Annous, meanwhile, has been turning heads with his versatility and maturity beyond his years. Operating across midfield and attacking roles, the 17-year-old has showcased creativity, energy and a fearless approach that fits perfectly with Arsenal’s style. His progression through the ranks has been rapid, and the club clearly see him as a core part of their long-term plans.
He shared his excitement on signing the new deal: “It’s a really good day to sign my first professional contract. I’m a fan of Arsenal so it’s a dream come true really.
“I want to keep playing in the under-21s, hopefully with England too. I want to go to the under-19 Euros at the end of the season and hopefully, if I keep pushing, I’ll be on the bench and make my debut with the first team. Hopefully, I can make that possible.”
Arsenal still want to sign more first-team players, but these contract renewals also send an important message. Last year saw Arsenal lose promising youngsters Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi to Manchester United merely for compensation. With Andrea Berta now leading the club’s transfer and retention strategy, the emphasis this summer has been on keeping the best homegrown talents at London Colney and creating a pathway to the first team.
Arsenal fans will be hoping that Harriman-Annous can follow in the footsteps of the likes of Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri and emerge as a first-team option from Hale End. If he doesn’t, a new deal at least protects his value and allows Arsenal to ensure they stop losing top talents like Heaven and Obi for nothing.
The Gunners’ youth strategy appears firmly back on track — and with the first team chasing major honours, the integration of these talented youngsters could provide both quality depth and a long-term competitive edge.
Now attention will turn to two major senior contracts left to sort out. William Saliba and Bukayo Saka, both having two years remaining on their contracts.
