Arsenal have won the race to sign highly-rated youngster Mishel Nduka from Charlton Athletic, according to reports from Scoutingindoors.
The 15-year-old attacking midfielder is considered one of the brightest talents in his age group and will join up with the Hale End academy, beginning his journey with the under-16 and under-18 squads.
This move underlines the Gunners’ ongoing strategy of snapping up the best young prospects from across the globe, with the aim of shaping them into first-team players of the future.
🚨🚨EXCLUSIVE:
— Next Generation Arsenal (@scoutingindoors) July 24, 2025
Arsenal are leading the race of PL clubs to sign highly rated U16 Mishel Nduka from Charlton.
The midfielder would be an excellent capture for the Academy as Arsenal look to close the deal having made headway over a number of PL clubs.
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Arsenal beat competition for his signature
Brighton and Hove Albion and Wolves were also tracking Nduka, but Arsenal managed to seal the deal, strengthening their academy pipeline in the process.
For fans, it’s another reminder of the club’s determination to keep Hale End at the heart of Arsenal’s identity — a production line that has given the first team current talents like Bukayo Saka, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri.
Rising through the ranks at Charlton
Despite being just 15, Nduka has already shown maturity beyond his years. He made his Charlton under-18 debut last season in a clash against Watford, while also earning a call-up to England under-15 training camps.
He made a big impression at the 2023 Madrid Cup, scoring a crucial goal against Spartak Trnava that helped Charlton reach the quarter-finals. In 2024, he also represented Charlton in the Valley Gold Academy Crossbar Challenge — further evidence of his growing reputation at youth level.
What kind of player is he?
Nduka is a creative, technically-gifted midfielder with the vision to dictate play and the confidence to operate under pressure. His quick feet, progressive passing, and attacking flair make him a natural fit for the style of football encouraged at Hale End, where academy manager Per Mertesacker continues to oversee development.
Eligible for both England and Nigeria, Nduka has international options ahead of him — but for now, all focus will be on adapting to life at Arsenal and pushing towards the under-18 side.
One for the future
Breaking into Arsenal’s youth teams will be no easy task, with competition fierce. But at just 15, time is on his side. His arrival is another example of Arsenal laying the foundations for the future, ensuring that creativity in midfield will remain a hallmark of the club for years to come.
