Arsenal’s double swoop
Arsenal are on the brink of finalising two signings from Manchester United’s academy. The 19‑year‑old Gibraltarian winger James Scanlon and the 20‑year‑old right‑back Habeeb Ogunneye are expected to join the Gunners in the next transfer window. The move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Arsenal’s under‑21 squad.
Scanlon’s Swindon spell
Scanlon, a product of Derby County’s youth system, signed for United in 2023 before being loaned to Swindon Town on the January transfer deadline day. He made six appearances for the League Two club, scoring once. His only goal came on his debut, curling the ball into the far corner to open the scoring in a 3‑0 victory over Oldham Athletic. Despite the early promise, Swindon’s manager Ian Holloway limited his starts, withdrawing him at half‑time against Newport County and after 53 minutes against Crewe Alexandra, and giving him only two late‑season substitute appearances.
Holloway admitted that Scanlon had not yet met his expectations, saying, “We haven’t seen much of him since his goal… I have no idea if he’s too young. I’m not seeing what I want to see.” The winger’s limited game time at Swindon has not stopped Arsenal from pursuing him.
Ogunneye joins the raid
The 20‑year‑old right‑back Habeeb Ogunneye has also been targeted by Arsenal. Ogunneye spent the 2023‑24 season on loan at Newport County, making 21 appearances before being recalled by United in January. He played under former youth coach David Hughes during his loan spell. Like Scanlon, Ogunneye was part of United’s under‑18 squad that won the Under‑18 Premier League National title and the Under‑18 Premier League Cup in 2023/24.
United youth success
Both Scanlon and Ogunneye were integral members of Manchester United’s under‑18 team that secured back‑to‑back titles in the 2023/24 season. Scanlon has also made his senior international debut for Gibraltar in March 2024 and has since earned 24 caps, scoring five goals for his national side.
Arsenal’s interest in the two young players underscores the club’s focus on building depth from the academy. If the deals are completed, Scanlon and Ogunneye will join the Gunners’ under‑21 ranks, potentially providing fresh options for the first team in the future.
