Transfer Window: Nwaneri joins Marseille, Milan bid for Mateta as Martinelli hints Saudi exit

Arsenal’s season continues to be shaped by a mix of on-field brilliance and significant transfer developments, with Ethan Nwaneri’s loan move, AC Milan’s pursuit of Jean-Philippe Mateta, and growing uncertainty around Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus all making headlines.

Highly rated teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri has joined Olympique Marseille on loan until the end of the season, marking the next step in his rapid development.

The 18-year-old, who became the youngest player in Premier League history at just 15 years and 181 days, has been with Arsenal since the age of eight and is regarded as one of the club’s brightest Hale End products.

After making 12 appearances this season and breaking through fully last campaign with 37 outings across all competitions, Arsenal have opted to send Nwaneri to Ligue 1 to gain consistent first-team football.

Marseille believe the creative attacking midfielder’s technical ability, vision and maturity will allow him to thrive under Roberto De Zerbi, while Arsenal view the move as vital to accelerating his growth at elite level.

Elsewhere in the transfer market, AC Milan have submitted an offer to Crystal Palace for striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, according to French journalist Santi Aouna.

Palace have rejected the initial bid, though Mateta is reported to have already agreed personal terms with the Serie A giants.

Milan are keen to strengthen their attacking options, and negotiations could continue despite the Eagles’ resistance, with the Italian club monitoring the situation closely.

At the Emirates, Arsenal’s title charge remains strong, with Mikel Arteta’s side leading the Premier League by seven points and enjoying a flawless Champions League group stage.

However, speculation is growing around key attacking players. 

Gabriel Martinelli has emerged as a surprise target for clubs in the Saudi Pro League, with reports suggesting Al Nassr are among those monitoring the Brazilian winger.

While Martinelli recently responded to criticism with an FA Cup hat-trick, it is claimed he could reassess his future after the upcoming World Cup, raising concerns among supporters despite his importance to Arsenal’s attack.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus has also fueled transfer talk after changing agents and speaking openly about his admiration for Italian football following Arsenal’s Champions League win over Inter Milan, in which he scored twice.

With his contract running until 2027, Jesus is not under immediate pressure to leave, but interest from Juventus and AC Milan suggests Serie A could become a future destination.

Together, these developments underline a pivotal period for Arsenal.

Nurturing elite young talent, maintaining domestic and European momentum, and navigating growing transfer interest in key players as they push for major silverware.

Photos

Ethan Nwaneri

Jean-Philippe Mateta

Gabriel Martinelli.