The LLM Podcast

August 13, 2026
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Abhinav Ennazhiyil

Myles Lewis-Skelly determined to stay at Arsenal despite interest from Chelsea and Man Utd

Despite reports linking him to domestic rivals, 19-year-old sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly is determined to remain at Arsenal after a breakthrough season that saw the Gunners crowned Premier League champions.

Myles Lewis-Skelly in action for Arsenal

A Meteoric Rise to the Top

Lewis-Skelly finished the 2025-26 campaign as a first-choice central midfielder and a starter in the Champions League final. Having originally broken into the first team as a left-back, the teenager successfully transitioned to the midfield, playing a pivotal role in securing Arsenal's first Premier League title since 2004.

However, the landscape has shifted with the recent £75million signing of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United. Manager Mikel Arteta is expected to pair Guimaraes with Declan Rice, leaving Lewis-Skelly and Martin Zubimendi to compete for the remaining minutes.

Player and Club Stance

Despite the increased competition, Lewis-Skelly is reportedly unequivocal about his future. Sources indicate that the player, who joined the club at age eight, is not seeking a move and believes a highly competitive environment is ideal for his continued development. He has already been heavily involved in pre-season, starting three of four friendlies.

Arsenal maintain they have not actively offered the player for transfer. However, the club's broader strategy this window is focused on player trading to ensure regulatory compliance. While they have already moved Christian Norgaard to Everton and Leandro Trossard to Besiktas, they are still attempting to sell Gabriel Jesus, Reiss Nelson, and Fabio Vieira. The club would also consider "attractive offers" for Gabriel Martinelli or Ethan Nwaneri, though no suitable bids have arrived.

Interest from Chelsea and Manchester United

While Arsenal denies offering the player to rivals, reports suggest that both Chelsea and Manchester United have been made aware of his availability.

  • Chelsea: Sources suggest that while they were informed of the possibility, there is little room in Xabi Alonso's squad. With a crowded midfield featuring Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia, as well as emerging talents like Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli and Reggie Watson, a move is deemed unlikely.
  • Manchester United: United view Lewis-Skelly as a versatile option who could alternate with Luke Shaw at left-back or support the midfield. However, there is skepticism regarding the cost, with expectations that a bid of £45million would be insufficient. United are also reportedly tracking Lewis Hall and Eduardo Camavinga.

As the September 1 deadline approaches, Arsenal may become more flexible with their sales if they fail to generate expected revenue from other departures, but for now, Lewis-Skelly remains a key part of the Gunners' future.

Sources: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7506310/2026/08/12/myles-lewis-skelly-arsenal-transfer