Arsenal eye double swoop from Manchester United
Arsenal are reportedly close to finalising deals for two young players from Manchester United’s academy - 19-year-old Gibraltarian winger James Scanlon and 20-year-old right-back Habeeb Ogunneye. The moves would see the players leave United and join Arsenal’s under-21 side as part of a double swoop.
Scanlon’s journey to Arsenal
Scanlon, a product of Derby County’s youth system, signed for Manchester United in 2023. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Swindon Town, where he made six appearances and scored once. His debut for Swindon came on January transfer deadline day, alongside Jake Batty and Junior Hoilett. Scanlon’s first goal for the club came on his debut against Oldham Athletic, curling the ball into the far corner to open the scoring in a 3-0 win.
Despite that early promise, Swindon manager Ian Holloway expressed doubts about Scanlon’s impact. He noted that Scanlon was withdrawn at half-time against Newport County and after 53 minutes against Crewe Alexandra, and that he only made two further starts and two substitute appearances later in the season. Holloway said, “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 manager added that Scanlon had looked a lot better in the last two days, but still had not met expectations.
Scanlon’s international credentials are impressive for a 19-year-old. He made his senior debut for Gibraltar in March 2024 and has earned 24 caps, scoring five goals. The winger’s experience at the international level is a key factor in Arsenal’s interest.
Ogunneye joins the package
Alongside Scanlon, Arsenal are also set to sign Habeeb Ogunneye, a 20-year-old right-back who has been on loan at Newport County for 21 matches last season before being recalled in January. Ogunneye played under former youth coach David Hughes at Newport and was part of Manchester United’s under-18 squad that won the Under-18 Premier League National title and the Under-18 Premier League Cup in 2023/24.
Arsenal’s under-21 strategy
The acquisition of Scanlon and Ogunneye fits Arsenal’s strategy of strengthening their under-21 squad with young talent from Premier League academies. The club’s interest in the two players reflects a focus on developing versatile, international-ready prospects who can contribute to the first team in the future.
Next steps
Arsenal are reportedly close to finalising the deals, with both players expected to join the club in the coming weeks. The moves will add depth to Arsenal’s under-21 ranks and provide Scanlon and Ogunneye with a platform to continue their development at a club known for nurturing young talent.
