Man Utd tipped to sign Ethan Nwaneri in shock move from Arsenal as 'tug-of-war' claim made

Manchester United have been tipped to make a shock move for Arsenal wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri in a transfer that would stun the Premier League.

Nwaneri, who made 37 appearances for Arsenal last season, is one of English football's brightest young talents.

His contract was due to expire at the end of next season, but he is widely expected to sign a new long-term extension with the Gunners this summer.

His new deal will prolong his stay at the Emirates for another five years, where he will be one of European football's best paid young players, according to the BBC.

However, Rene Meulensteen - who was first-team coach at Manchester United for several years under Sir Alex Ferguson - believes Nwaneri could be tempted to move to Old Trafford, following other former Arsenal youngsters who have joined the Red Devils in recent years.

Speaking to Grosvenor Casinos, Meulensteen said: "Ayden Heaven looks to be an astute bit of business and it’s interesting that there is a pathway of players moving from Arsenal to Manchester United with Chido Obi another one.

Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi (Image: Ash Donelon / Contributor via Getty)

"These players have had a good education and for whatever reason they didn’t see a way forward at their particular club, United acted swiftly and we’ve seen them do well.

"Ethan Nwaneri could be another one, it’s interesting that other Arsenal players have been keen on United.

"What I would say on Nwaneri, I think there will be a bit more of a tug-of-war going on and more financial demands than with those two."

How have Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi done at Man United?

Both Heaven and Chido Obi made the move from Arsenal to Man United last season and have received first-team opportunities at Old Trafford.

Heaven impressed in his six appearances, before his season was cut short through injury.

Although Chido Obi did not score in his eight games, he looked lively when he was used from the bench.

Chido Obi (Image: Vincent Carchietta / Stringer via Getty)

The 17-year-old Dane bagged his first senior goals during United's post season tour in a 3-1 win against Hong Kong, in which Heaven also scored.

Both players have featured heavily in United's first two pre-season games this summer against Leeds and West Ham, demonstrating just how highly Ruben Amorim rates the pair.

However, with no European football this season, opportunities may be limited.

Heaven will compete for the left-sided centre back spot with Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez and potentially Leny Yoro.

Meanwhile, Chido Obi faces competition from Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee for a spot up front.

But United remain active in the summer transfer window and are eager to bring in a new striker.

For Nwaneri, there is a clear pathway to the United first-team if he does make the unlikely move.