European giants look to replicate Trent Alexander-Arnold coup as Gunners race to secure rising star’s future
Arsenal face a crucial battle to retain one of their brightest young talents as Real Madrid reportedly circle 18-year-old defender Myles Lewis-Skelly, with the Spanish giants hoping to repeat their successful free transfer strategy that recently landed Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The teenage left-back enjoyed a remarkable breakthrough season at the Emirates, making 23 Premier League appearances and establishing himself as Mikel Arteta’s first-choice in the position. However, with his initial professional contract expiring next summer, Europe’s most successful club see an opportunity to pounce.
Contract Clock Ticking
Journalist Jonathan Wilson revealed on The Guardian’s Football Weekly podcast that negotiations between Arsenal and Lewis-Skelly have hit obstacles, stating: “Talks have not been going well from what I hear, and Real Madrid are sort of sniffing around there.” The situation bears striking resemblance to Alexander-Arnold’s move to the Bernabéu, completed earlier this summer after he allowed his Liverpool deal to run down.
Despite the concerning reports, Arsenal remain confident of securing their academy product’s long-term future. FootballTransfers exclusively revealed in January that the club plans to offer both Lewis-Skelly and fellow teenage standout Ethan Nwaneri new five-year contracts. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently suggested it’s “only a matter of time” before Lewis-Skelly’s extension is finalized.
Homegrown Loyalty vs. Galáctico Dreams
While Madrid’s interest is genuine, sources suggest the Spanish club are banking on turning the youngster’s head rather than expecting an outright rejection of Arsenal’s offer. The North London club consider both Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri (who signed professional terms in March after turning 18) as fundamental to their long-term plans and would not entertain any offers for the pair.
For Lewis-Skelly, the coming weeks present a career-defining decision: commit to the club where he’s risen through the ranks since childhood, or consider following in Alexander-Arnold’s footsteps to one of world football’s most glamorous destinations. As Arsenal work to finalize his new deal, this transfer saga serves as the latest test of their ability to retain top young talent in an increasingly competitive market.
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