United plotting “one of the most controversial” transfers of all time, ready to raid fierce rivals for star attacker – report

Manchester United could potentially seal one of the most controversial transfers of recent times if the latest reports are anything to go by. As relayed by F365, the Red Devils are reportedly “circling like sharks” to sign Arsenal wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri. Last season was the 18-year-old’s breakthrough season, and he managed to score nine times while registering two assists. The England U21 international excels as an attacking midfielder, but he can do a job out wide as well as up top if needed. Ethan Nwaneri deal in the pipeline Despite a scintillating campaign, Mikel Arteta seems to have lost faith in the wonderkid this term, with the Hale End product managing a mere three starts this season. None of them have come in the Premier League. The Gunners are under pressure to balance the books, and selling an academy graduate equals pure profit. And Ethan Nwaneri has been earmarked as the most likely departure. CompetitionAppearances (MP)GoalsAssistsMinutes Played Premier League2642889′ UEFA Champions League720221′ EFL Cup430268′ Total (2024/25)37921,378′ 24/25 season stats via Transfermarkt  Ruben Amorim is reportedly a huge fan of the young Englishman’s talents, and he fits INEOS’ model of recruiting young, Premier League-proven performers. “We understand Arsenal need to sell a valuable player to fund future targets due to financial rules. Manchester United already circling like sharks – they want Ethan Nwaneri. Huge pinch of salt please “Kobbie Mainoo could be sold or loaned if the unthinkable Nwaneri move happens. This would be one of the most controversial transfers between the clubs since Van Persie. “Nwaneri’s fed up, Barely getting a kick, career has stalled hard, according to club sources! Ruben Amorim is a big admirer of Nwaneri and would love to manage him at United.” Adding such an explosive talent would be sensational, but it is unlikely that the North London side will sanction a sale to United. So take this story with a huge pinch of salt. Amorim badly needs a midfielder and possibly a wingback more than another attacking midfielder at present. So, INEOS are likely to focus on those in the winter. Feature image Eddie Keogh via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25