What Mikel Arteta has said as Ethan Nwaneri considers Arsenal exit amid Everton speculation

Mikel Arteta is a big fan of Ethan Nwaneri amid ongoing speculation over a move to Everton.

The 19-year-old was regarded as Arsenal's next big thing not long ago, though a failed loan move to Marseille appears to have put a spanner in the works at the Emirates Stadium.

David Moyes' side are said to be keen on the winger, who broke Premier League history by becoming the youngest-ever player to debut in the competition at 15 years and five months old.

Nwaneri had a particularly impressive season with the Gunners during the 2024-25 campaign, where he registered 11 goal involvements in 37 games.

Now, the teenager could be on the move, with the Toffees in need of further attacking reinforcements.

Everton are on the case of Nwaneri, who could be set to make a decision on his future very soon.

The latest update on Everton-linked Ethan Nwaneri

Everton are said to be "very interested" in Nwaneri, who can play in central midfield, right wing or the number 10 role.

He only managed to play 11 times for Marseille in the second half of last season, scoring twice and grabbing an assist.

Though his move didn't go to plan, it may have been a surprise if Arsenal were open to selling the forward this summer.

According to an update from the Daily Mail on Thursday, Nwaneri could leave North London on loan once more or permanently, with Arsenal already said to be open to the idea of the latter.

The player is "considering his options" and whether he wants to leave the reigning Premier League champions or not, with RB Leipzig and other European sides keen.

Multiple Premier League clubs are also interested in Nwaneri, with Fulham also monitoring the situation.

There is a way for Everton to take advantage of Arsenal's current off-field issues to land the right-winger.

Why Arsenal may need to sell Nwaneri to Everton

Everton are also said to be keen on Myles Lewis-Skelly, another one of Arsenal's top-tier academy products.

It's understood that the Gunners may need to sell Lewis-Skelly, among other players, to stay compliant with UEFA spending rules and to further improve their squad.

Speaking recently on Nwaneri's disappointing loan at Marseille, Arteta still has high hopes for the England U21s star.

Arteta said: "Ethan has been really good. Probably what happened on the field on his loan in Marseille wasn’t what was expected.

"But he looks different, a lot more mature, it’s incredible what six months and a different experience abroad can do to you. I’m very happy with what Ethan has done in pre-season."

Everton could explore a permanent move for Nwaneri, though a loan transfer could be just as smart for the Friedkin Group.