United’s pursuit of “fantastic” English sensation rocked after Arsenal submit official bid first – Fabrizio Romano

Manchester United risk losing Jeremy Monga to Arsenal after the Gunners ramped up their pursuit of the Leicester City wonderkid, according to Fabrizio Romano. Wing Wizard Monga, 16, is widely considered one of the most exciting prospects in England after firmly establishing himself as a part of Leicester City’s side last season, despite the Foxes being relegated from the Championship. The left winger made 30 appearances in all competitions, scoring one goal and assisting twice. But it is his fearless approach, predicated on dizzying dribbling and the ability to go inside or out, which has really caught the eye, as has his record-breaking streak. In April 2025, the Coventry-born starlet became the second youngest player to make their debut in Premier League history after bursting onto the scene at the King Power Stadium in an otherwise miserable campaign that ended in relegation. In August of the same year, he broke a 59-year record as Leicester City’s youngest ever starter in the penalty shoot-out defeat to Huddersfield Town in the Carabao Cup. It was previously held by legendary goalkeeper Peter Shilton. The same month, just over a five weeks after his 16th birthday, he became the Championship’s youngest goal scorer since its rebrand in 2004-05 with a well-taken finish against Preston North End, surpassing Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham. It is little wonder, therefore, that the Premier League’s biggest clubs, including the Red Devils, have made advances to sign Monga, given Leicester have dropped down into League One and his “fantastic” talent belongs far higher up the football pyramid, as United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy acknowledged during his time as Foxes manager. Arsenal leading the charge United’s sporting director Jason Wilcox is understood to have held talks with “club officials” from Leicester, with sources confirming “firm interest” from Old Trafford. However, the queue of suitors for Monga is extensive, with as many as ten Premier League clubs said to have expressed interest in the England under-19 international. But it is Arsenal, fresh from their first title in 22 years, who are leading the charge, Fabrizio Romano confirms. The Italian transfer expert claims the Gunners have submitted an “official bid” for Monga, with “optimism” he will arrive at the Emirates this summer. 🚨🔴⚪️ EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal sent official bid to Leicester City to get Jeremy Monga deal done. 16 year old winger keen on joining #AFC and deal moving quickly now with optimism to sign #LCFC talent, seen as huge prospect for the future. ⏳⌛️ pic.twitter.com/8xZQMCfByU — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 18, 2026 Tweet: “EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal sent official bid to Leicester City to get Jeremy Monga deal done. 16 year old winger keen on joining #AFC and deal moving quickly now with optimism to sign #LCFC talent, seen as huge prospect for the future.” Monga is understood to be open to the switch to North London, though Leicester’s asking price of £15 million is a prohibitive one for any of his suitors. Arsenal’s bid is not believed to have been accepted yet, making it likely it has fallen below this valuation and offering United hope of a last-minute hijack. Interestingly, Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Marcus Rashford after FC Barcelona decided against triggering the £26m buy option in the 28-year-old forward‘s loan deal. Featured image Michael regan 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 Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.