Arsenal have numerous transfer deals in progress, and a potential double swoop for Manchester United youth players could be next on the cards
Mikel Arteta is constructing a formidable Arsenal squad(2026 Getty Images)
Arsenal are considering a dual approach for Manchester United youngsters James Scanlon and Habeeb Ogunneye. While Arteta’s men have been pursuing the likes of Julian Alvarez and Victor Osimhen, the club is also focused on securing future talent.
In their plans, 19-year-old Scanlon could feature as a winger while 20-year-old Ogunneye might slot into the north London side’s defence. Although Bruno Guimaraes’ signing has dominated the headlines, the club has been actively recruiting promising young players as well.
This supposed transfer pursuit comes after United launched their own raid for Arsenal’s young talent, acquiring both Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi. Alongside these Red Devils targets, Arsenal are also optimistic about landing three additional players.
Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa appears set for a switch to the Emirates Stadium, with Cardiff City’s youngest-ever player Axel Donczew and Liverpool academy graduate Vincent Joseph also on the verge of moving to the Emirates, according to The Telegraph.
Crystal Palace’s 16-year-old prodigy Mylo Bernard is also reportedly on Arsenal’s wishlist. The Gunners have already secured the signature of Matthew Upson’s son and former Tottenham academy player Elijah Upson this summer.
The aforementioned signings highlight a hectic transfer period for the Gunners. Things could become even more intriguing, with Osimhen and Alvarez still under consideration.
Alvarez will not appear in Atletico Madrid’s La Liga curtain-raiser against Malaga, as manager Diego Simeone indicated the player has been distracted by summer transfer speculation.
Scanlon operates as a winger for United(2026 James Gill – Danehouse)
Ogunneye is also regarded as a highly promising prospect(2026 Manchester United FC)
The Argentine stated that from a sporting viewpoint, they want to prioritise the individual and the player, ensuring he maintains his standing. They do not anticipate him featuring in this match. He hopes that over the coming days, the player will be closer to their desired position.
Beyond these young players, Arsenal have also completed transfers for Christos Tzolis, Illan Meslier and Piero Hincapie, whose loan arrangement from last season has been converted into a permanent deal this summer.
The expenditure is unlikely to cease there, with Gunners chief executive Richard Garlick indicating the club remains open to further signings.
Konsa could be plying his trade at the Emirates Stadium shortly(Image: Getty)
He informed Sky Sports that at the beginning of this season, they made clear they would not become complacent and consider their work finished. They are determined to progress, as the top clubs are constantly evolving.
He added that the squad has already received investment this season, and should the right opportunity emerge, they would seek to bolster all areas. The transfer window remains open for several more weeks, and any players capable of advancing Arsenal’s position would be considered.