Arsenal are reportedly in advanced talks to disrupt Manchester City’s attempts to secure the signing of 18-year-old Norwegian midfielder Sverre Halseth Nypan. According to David Ornstein, Arsenal have made significant progress in discussions with Nypan’s current club, Rosenborg, as they aim to bring the promising player to the Emirates Stadium. This development has added an intriguing twist to the transfer window as the Gunners compete with City for the highly sought-after teenager.
Manchester City, who have already spent over £100 million in January to sign Omar Marmoush, Vitor Reis, and Abdukodir Khusanov, were poised to complete their fourth signing of the window with Nypan. The reigning Premier League champions, currently in fifth place domestically, are looking to strengthen their squad to improve their form and ensure success in the Champions League play-offs. However, Arsenal’s late move for the Rosenborg star has cast doubt over City’s plans.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had initially reported that Nypan was set to travel to Manchester to hold talks with City over a potential deal. Their proposal reportedly included an immediate loan move to Girona for the remainder of the season, offering the midfielder an opportunity to develop further before joining Pep Guardiola’s squad. However, Arsenal’s approach presents a contrasting vision for Nypan’s future.
Ornstein claims that Arsenal want Nypan to join their first team immediately. The Norwegian wonderkid, known for his versatility and ability to play in multiple midfield positions, is viewed by Mikel Arteta as a player who could contribute to Arsenal’s campaign this season. While no official agreement has been reached yet, talks between Arsenal and Rosenborg are said to be advancing rapidly, leaving City with a race against time to finalize their own deal.
Interestingly, Nypan faced Manchester United in a pre-season friendly last summer, where he reportedly impressed Erik ten Hag’s side. However, despite the midfielder admitting he has “always been a Manchester United fan,” United are not currently in the running to sign him. Their focus appears to be elsewhere, with reports suggesting they have tabled a €30 million bid for Lecce wing-back Patrick Dorgu.
Nypan’s potential transfer fee is estimated to be around £10 million, as his contract with Rosenborg is set to expire in 18 months. This relatively low price, combined with his immense potential, has made him an attractive prospect for top European clubs. However, while City and Arsenal are actively pursuing him, United seem to have dropped out of the race despite their historical links with the player.
This situation highlights Arsenal’s proactive approach to the January transfer window. The Gunners have yet to make a permanent signing this month, but Arteta has identified Nypan as a priority target. This move comes as Arsenal seek to bolster their squad following their inconsistent performances in recent weeks. The club has also been linked with a summer move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who has a £51 million release clause, further showcasing their ambition to strengthen their midfield options.
For City, missing out on Nypan would be a blow to their January transfer plans, especially after already securing three high-profile signings. Guardiola’s side has invested heavily to maintain their dominance in English football, but Arsenal’s intervention in this deal could disrupt their momentum.
The next few days will be crucial as both clubs continue to negotiate with Rosenborg. Nypan, who has been touted as one of the brightest young talents in Europe, will ultimately need to decide which project aligns best with his career ambitions. Whether he chooses City’s pathway of gradual integration or Arsenal’s offer of immediate first-team football remains to be seen.
For Arsenal fans, this transfer battle represents an exciting opportunity to secure a future star. The club’s ability to compete with financial giants like City is a testament to their growing ambition under Arteta’s leadership. As the January transfer window approaches its climax, the pursuit of Sverre Halseth Nypan promises to be a captivating storyline that could shape the futures of both Arsenal and Manchester City.
