Manchester City have reached an agreement to sign Mishel Nduka after the midfielder turned down a new deal at Arsenal.
David Ornstein reports the 16-year-old is expected to undergo a medical imminently before joining City on scholarship terms. A professional contract will follow once he becomes eligible.
Arsenal had fought to keep him. The Gunners offered Nduka a highly competitive long-term contract, but the England youth international opted to continue his development at the Etihad instead.
Manchester City agree deal to sign Arsenal teenager Mishel Nduka
His decision caps a rapid rise in north London. Nduka joined Arsenal from Charlton Athletic in September 2025, and quickly progressed above his age group.
He made 10 appearances for the Under-18s last season and also featured for the Under-21s and in the UEFA Youth League.
City’s pull once again proved decisive. The move forms part of an aggressive drive under the club to recruit and develop the game’s most promising young players, rather than relying solely on established stars.
It is not their first such coup this month, either. City signed 17-year-old Jeremy Monga from Leicester in a deal worth up to £12.5m, with Arsenal withdrawing their own interest over the valuation.
England youth international Heaven Kilwa also chose City after rejecting a scholarship at Aston Villa.
For Arsenal, the exit stings. Nduka’s departure follows that of Kyran Thompson, who joined Newcastle, leaving the Gunners’ latest scholarship intake reduced in number.
