Mikel Arteta explains Arsenal's January transfer plans as midfielder nears exit

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Mikel Arteta gave a cryptic response when asked whether Arsenal would consider sending Ethan Nwaneri out on loan in the January transfer window . Nwaneri has struggled for game time at Arsenal this season and is being eyed by Bournemouth for a short-term loan deal.

The 18-year-old creative midfielder enjoyed a breakthrough 2024/25 season under Arteta’s management. He managed nine goals and two assists in 37 games across all competitions as he and fellow academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly made telling contributions.

But the influx of new players in the summer transfer window, including Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, has diminished opportunities for Nwaneri. So far this season he has played 446 minutes across 11 appearances with one goal, with no starts in the Premier League .

His lack of involvement has come as a disappointment after he signed a five-year contract with the Gunners in the summer and Bournemouth are keen on taking him as a short-term replacement for Antoine Semenyo, who is poised to join Manchester City for £65million.

Arteta was asked about the plan for Nwaneri in a press conference ahead of Arsenal’s game against Bournemouth on Saturday after the youngster was left out of the squad for the 4-1 win over Aston Villa . He replied: “That every player is very important, every player has a role, that role can change throughout the season for different reasons, and everybody has to be ready to play.”

Asked about Arsenal’s plans for the January transfer window in general, he added: “We are open to every option. Obviously, if we can find a solution that is short, medium or long. It's always much better because it gives you stability and you don't have to constantly start a process with a new player.

“But let's see what happens, let's see what the news is in the next few weeks, and we'll try to make the right decision.”

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The Gunners are four points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table after their rivals were held to a 0-0 draw by Sunderland on Thursday night. Arteta’s squad has been bolstered by the summer arrivals, but that has made keeping everybody happy trickier for the Arsenal manager.

Increased competition for places has meant that Lewis-Skelly, Nwaneri and Max Dowman have been given fewer appearances. It comes in stark contrast to last season and Nwaneri was obviously hoping to kick on in 2025/26.

After signing a new deal in August, he 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.”

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