Premier League champions Arsenal are plotting a raid on Manchester United for their English-born Nigerian defender Habeeb Ogunneye, according to Telegraph Sport.

Ogunneye played 21 matches on loan at Newport County last season before being recalled in January.

The 20-year-old London-born defender has been involved in multiple first-team matchday squads at United, including the FA Cup semi-final victory over Coventry City in 2024.

Arsenal’s move for Ogunneye comes after United successfully prised away two of the north London club’s brightest talents in recent seasons. Defender Ayden Heaven and striker Chido Obi were both persuaded to swap the Emirates Stadium for Old Trafford.

Also on Arsenal’s radar is Ogunneye’s 19-year-old teammate James Scanlon who joined United from Derby County in 2021 and has already made 24 international appearances for Gibraltar, the country of his mother’s birth.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at Swindon Town and is believed to have agreed a two-year deal with Arsenal, with an option for a further 12 months.

Ogunneye is eligible to represent both England (through birth) and Nigeria (through heritage).

He has featured for the England U17 team, making three appearances between 2021 and 2022. As of 2024, Ogunneye faced a decision regarding his senior international allegiance, with both nations actively monitoring his progress.

England U21 manager Lee Carsley has publicly identified him as a “possible future star,” indicating the Football Association’s desire to secure his commitment.

By James Agberebi

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