Arsenal have reportedly promised to phase Sverre Nypan straight into Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad if they win the race for his signature.
Rosenborg teenager Nypan watched Manchester City beat Chelsea from Erling Haaland’s private box at the weekend. The reigning Premier League champions have identified him as a top prospect and want him to sign for sister club Girona before eventually moving to the Etihad Stadium.
Nypan, who is assessing his options and taking the time to visit interested clubs, travelled down to London on Sunday night for talks with Arsenal. Aston Villa have also presented their project to the Norwegian’s camp in the hope they can nip in ahead of City and the Gunners.
The full content of each proposal remains under wraps, but The Athletic claim that Arsenal’s involves Nypan going straight into the senior squad. That commitment could give them an advantage over City, who are keen to send him to Spain before giving him a crack at the big time.
Nypan only turned 18 last month, but he has already banked two full seasons of experience with Rosenborg, who reportedly value him at £10million. Any potential deal is also likely to involve significant add-ons.
The midfielder, who has drawn comparisons to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, has scored 13 goals in 60 appearances since breaking into senior football. And he is already capped up to Under-21 level with Norway.
Arsenal are well-stocked in midfield but Arteta and transfer chief Jason Ayto would be wise to plan for the future, given that veterans Thomas Partey and Jorginho will both be out of contract at the end of the season.
Alongside their pursuit of Nypan, the Gunners are also believed to be exploring centre-forward options in the winter transfer market. Injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus have left them light up top and dented their chances of catching Liverpool in the title race.
Wolves star Matheus Cunha, Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak and RB Leipzig youngster Benjamin Sesko are all on Arsenal’s radar. But the costs involved in all three deals make them unlikely to progress until the summer.
Nigerian international Victor Osimhen is also thought to be a long-standing target in north London. His services would not come cheap either, with Napoli only able to recall him from a loan spell at Galatasaray in the case of a serious offer.
