Arsenal are set to lose another highly rated young talent, with Super Eagles-eligible midfielder Mishel Nduka expected to join Premier League rivals Manchester City in the latest setback for the Gunners’ academy, Footynaija.com reports.
The 16-year-old only joined Arsenal from Charlton Athletic in September 2025 after spending eight years in Charlton’s youth system. Despite arriving less than a year ago, Nduka has impressed at Hale End, earning opportunities above his age group.
The gifted midfielder featured regularly for Arsenal’s Under-18 side, made two appearances for the Under-21s and also played in the UEFA Youth League against Club Brugge. His rapid progress has also seen him represent England at Under-16 level, although he remains eligible to play for Nigeria.
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Nduka’s expected move comes just days after Manchester City beat Arsenal to another exciting teenage talent, Jeremy Monga. The Leicester City youngster had been strongly linked with the Gunners before City emerged to secure his signature, continuing a trend of winning battles for some of England’s brightest prospects.
Daily Mail Sport reports that Arsenal tried to keep Nduka with improved terms, but City have now moved into pole position to complete the deal. The Premier League champions have built a reputation for attracting elite academy players with a clear pathway for development, making them an increasingly attractive destination for young talents.
For Nigerian football, Nduka remains a player to watch. The Nigeria Football Federation has shown growing interest in identifying and engaging dual-nationality prospects across Europe, and the teenager is among the emerging names eligible to represent the Super Eagles in the future.
While the move is yet to be confirmed, Nduka’s expected switch to Manchester City would be another academy blow for Arsenal and another reminder of the fierce competition between England’s top clubs to secure the country’s most promising young players.
