Emerson Nwaneri has pre-agreed a professional contract with Arsenal as well as his new scholarship deal, according to a report.
Sam Dean of The Telegraph reports that Ethan Nwaneri’s younger brother Emerson has committed his future to Arsenal by agreeing both a scholarship contract and a first professional deal with the Gunners.
The professional contract will kick in once Emerson turns 17, which is the earliest you can formally sign pro terms. Emerson is currently 15, and he’ll celebrate his 17th birthday in August 2027.
First professional contracts generally last for the remainder of the current season plus two more afterwards, as there are restrictions on the length of contract you can sign at that age.
So assuming Dean’s report is accurate and Emerson moves onto a pro deal in 2027, he should then be under contract until 2030.
Next Generation Arsenal had broken the news last week that Emerson was set to stay at Arsenal, amid reports of interest from Chelsea and Manchester City. This news of a pro deal to follow is a bonus.
Emerson’s departure to a big-six rival would have been a disappointing outcome for Arsenal, who had promoted him to the u18s this season, and had even given him his debuts in the UEFA Youth League and the Premier League 2.
The 15-year-old obviously hasn’t been fast-tracked as much as his brother, with Ethan already having made his Premier League debut by this point. But Emerson has still made appearances way above his age group.
The teenager’s progress with Arsenal has also been recognised internationally, with England giving the youngster a number of appearances in their u16 team this season.
It now looks as though he’s set for further chances with Arsenal in 2026/27.
- Erling Haaland responds to Arsenal’s Community Shield winErling Haaland has offered congratulations to Arsenal after Sunday’s Community Shield win, with the Manchester City striker also seen embracing Gabriel Magalhaes.
- Arsenal target formally asks club to cancel his contractArsenal’s pursuit of Igor Tyjon is coming to a head, with the player reportedly asking Blackburn Rovers to cancel his contract so he can complete the transfer.
- Arsenal confirm new u21 head coach appointmentArsenal have officially confirmed the appointment of David Horseman as their new u21 head coach, deciding on an internal promotion to fill the position.
- Manager excited to show Arsenal loanee offSt Mirren boss Craig McLeish reveals why Arsenal loanee Ismeal Kabia was worth the wait after beating clubs from Britain and Europe to sign him.
- Arsenal transfer stalls over financesNapoli still want Gabriel Jesus but face major financial hurdles, with Arsenal’s asking price, wages and player sales all affecting any potential deal.