Manchester City are poised to sign Arsenal midfielder Mishel Nduka, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic. The 16-year-old has agreed to a move to City despite being offered a long-term contract by the Gunners.
Nduka, an England youth international, will undergo a medical before completing a scholarship move to the Premier League champions. He joined Arsenal from Charlton Athletic in 2025 and has since featured for both the Under-18s and Under-21s sides.
This transfer comes after City secured the signing of 17-year-old winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City earlier this month for an initial fee of £10 million, potentially rising to £12 million with add-ons. Arsenal had previously shown interest in Monga but withdrew their pursuit, deeming Leicester’s asking price too high, as reported by The Athletic in July.
Manchester City have been actively bolstering their youth ranks, reflecting a clear strategy to develop top young talent in England. The club has enjoyed considerable success at youth level recently, winning the Premier League 2 Division 1 title four times in five seasons between 2021 and 2025. They also claimed the 2025/26 FA Youth Cup, defeating Manchester United 2-1 in the final.
Nduka’s departure represents a setback for Arsenal’s youth development program, following their unsuccessful attempt to sign defender Emmanuel Mbemba. The 18-year-old Mbemba ultimately chose to join Paris FC, managed by Liam Rosenior, despite reportedly favouring a move to Arsenal when leaving Paris Saint-Germain. The acquisition of Nduka and Monga further strengthens City's academy, which is increasingly recognised as a key component of the club's long-term success. This move will likely provide Nduka with a platform to develop within a highly successful youth system.
