Marseille Are Working to Sign 'Phenomenal' Arsenal Attacker Ahead of Their Clash with Liverpool

By Eoin Morris | Tue 20 January 2026 10:34, UK

Olympique Marseille are in advanced talks with Arsenal to secure a loan deal for highly-rated teenage attacker Ethan Nwaneri, dubbed 'phenomenal' by scouts, just ahead of their upcoming clash with Liverpool in European competition.[2]

The 18-year-old prodigy, who has made sporadic appearances for the Gunners this season amid fierce competition from new signings like Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, is seeking regular game time to further his development.[1] Arsenal's depth in attack, under Mikel Arteta, means Nwaneri's potential departure won't disrupt their quadruple chase, as the club retains full faith in his long-term future at the Emirates.[1]

Journalist David Ornstein of The Athletic first reported Marseille's club-to-club negotiations on Tuesday morning.[1][4] Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the details on X, revealing Marseille's official bid: a loan until June with no buy option or obligation, full salary coverage, and a loan fee exceeding €3 million, tied to Nwaneri's appearances.[1]

Arsenal view Roberto De Zerbi's attacking style at Marseille as ideal for Nwaneri's skill set, positioning the Ligue 1 side as frontrunners despite interest from two Premier League clubs—Crystal Palace and West Ham—hoping to hijack the deal.[1] Sources emphasize Arsenal's insistence on excluding any permanent transfer clauses, underscoring their belief in the youngster's north London future.[1]

This move comes at an intriguing time for Marseille, who face Liverpool soon, potentially giving the French outfit a tactical boost with fresh talent. Nwaneri, long linked with a loan exit, is eager for consistent minutes, and negotiations are progressing positively.[1][6]

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