Arsenal are looking to strengthen their academy ranks with an intriguing move for two Manchester United youngsters, James Scanlon and Habeeb Ogunneye, as the Gunners continue an aggressive recruitment drive.

As per a report from The Athletic, the North London club are working on deals for both players and are increasingly confident that agreements can be reached before the summer transfer window closes.

Scanlon, 19, is a Gibraltar international who has progressed through United’s academy after joining from Derby County. The attacking player spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Swindon Town, gaining valuable senior experience. He has also been involved around United’s first-team setup and was previously included in a senior matchday squad.

Ogunneye, meanwhile, is a 20-year-old right-back who has also had a taste of senior football away from Old Trafford. He spent last season on loan at Newport County, where he made 15 league appearances and scored once.

The potential double swoop comes against an interesting backdrop. Manchester United previously signed former Arsenal academy talents Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi, making the possibility of Arsenal taking two young players in the opposite direction particularly notable.

Arsenal have made youth recruitment a significant part of their transfer strategy this summer, with the club seeking to add promising players capable of developing into first-team options. Neither transfer has been completed yet, but Arsenal’s confidence over both deals suggests United could soon face decisions over two more of their emerging talents.

Arsenal Transfers for First-Team

In terms of the senior team, the Gunners have also significantly bolstered their side. After the Premier League triumph last season, Mikel Arteta has further added important signings.

Christos Tzolis arrived from Club Brugge, while midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has also joined from Newcastle United. Arsenal also made Piero Hincapie’s loan move permanent, while Illan Meslier has joined them for free. Ezri Konsa is likely to join the North London club soon while another attacking personnel is being targeted as well.