Barcelona, October 11, 2025 — The transfer market has erupted into frenzy after FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick openly declared his admiration for Arsenal’s teenage prodigy Ethan Nwaneri, calling him “the best young player I’ve seen in years.” Surprisingly, Flick wasn’t referring to Bukayo Saka, but to the 18-year-old Nigerian-British talent struggling for minutes under Mikel Arteta at the Emirates.
Known for his sharp eye for youth talent — having famously promoted Jamal Musiala during his Bayern Munich days — Flick confessed in an exclusive interview with Sport that he is “desperate” to bring Nwaneri to Camp Nou. “I’ve followed him since his Arsenal academy days,” Flick said. “He reminds me of a young Messi — his vision, dribbling, and finishing are exceptional. I don’t understand why Arteta doesn’t give him more chances. At Barcelona, I’d develop him to the level of Lamine Yamal.”
Nwaneri, who made history as the youngest Premier League debutant at age 15 in 2022, has played just 120 minutes for Arsenal this season. Despite limited opportunities, his performances in the reserve team — two goals and an assist — have impressed scouts across Europe. Flick reportedly views him as the “natural successor to Pedri” in Barça’s attacking midfield.
Barcelona’s interest fits their new recruitment strategy under Flick: targeting young, affordable, high-upside players to balance financial constraints. After leading Barça to the LaLiga title in his first season, the German coach is now eyeing a youthful core built around Yamal, Gavi, and potentially Nwaneri. With a release clause of €40 million and a contract running until 2026, the Arsenal starlet ticks all the boxes.
Sources in Spain claim informal discussions have already begun with Nwaneri’s agent, who has praised Barcelona’s youth philosophy. “Hansi’s been obsessed with this kid for months,” said a club insider. “He’s not like Saka — Arsenal will sell if the offer is right.”
The English press reacted swiftly. The Sun ran the headline “Flick Wants Arteta’s Hidden Diamond”, while Daily Mail warned of a looming “talent war” between the Premier League and LaLiga. Arteta, asked about the rumours after Arsenal’s 2–1 win over Tottenham, played it cool: “Ethan is part of our family. We believe in his growth here, but football is unpredictable.”
However, tension reportedly brews behind the scenes. Nwaneri, frustrated by limited minutes following the arrivals of Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, has been exploring his options. His admiration for Lamine Yamal — whom he recently called “my idol” — has only intensified speculation about a potential move to Spain.
This isn’t Flick’s first attempt to lure an Arsenal player. Barcelona tried to sign Emile Smith Rowe last January before he joined Fulham for £34 million. But this time, the Blaugrana are ready to go big — €25 million plus add-ons is reportedly on the table. Flick believes Nwaneri could be “the spark for Barcelona’s next great generation.”
For the 18-year-old, the allure of Camp Nou and its legacy of turning young stars into legends might prove irresistible. But Arsenal’s stance — and Arteta’s next move — will determine how this story unfolds.
One thing’s for sure: Flick’s public praise has set off a new transfer saga, and Europe will be watching closely to see whether Barcelona can pull off another youth-driven masterstroke — or if Arsenal will fight to keep their hidden gem.
