RB Leipzig close in on Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri as advanced talks progress

Arsenal could be about to let another academy jewel leave, with RB Leipzig reportedly moving quickly for Ethan Nwaneri. Italian journalist Carlo Pellegatti says the Bundesliga side are in advanced talks with the Gunners over the 19-year-old, who is facing serious uncertainty about his future. The attacker spent part of last season on loan at Marseille after barely playing in the first half of the campaign. The move was meant to accelerate his development under Roberto de Zerbi, but the Italian coach walked out within weeks. His successor, Habib Beye, was not won over - Nwaneri was criticised for his perceived nonchalance and ended up with just over 400 Ligue 1 minutes. Now back in north London, Nwaneri remains highly thought of and is still the youngest player ever to appear for Arsenal. But with no guaranteed path into the first team, a permanent departure is being taken seriously. Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund asked about him last year, and interest from Premier League clubs has not gone away. European sides may have the edge, though, with AC Milan also in contact. According to Pellegatti, Milan would need to sell Rafael Leao to fund a move, and no buyer has emerged yet. Leipzig, meanwhile, are pushing ahead and are prepared to offer €35-40m. Arsenal want to keep some control and could insert a buy-back clause worth €55-60m, allowing them to re-sign Nwaneri in a year or two. Leipzig should have money to spend, especially if Yan Diomande completes his expected move to Real Madrid. broadcaster Germany reported that Leipzig will not go above €45m for any individual signing this summer, which makes Nwaneri's price range viable. SciSports data suggests he is better suited to Leipzig as a right winger than as a No. 10, and he could even be seen as Diomande's replacement. With Ole Werner dismissed and Martin Demichelis now in charge, there is still uncertainty around the team's direction, but landing a player of Nwaneri's talent looks like a smart move.