Arsenal's deadline day stalls talks with two under‑23 prospects

Arsenal have failed to reach a breakthrough in contract negotiations with Alex Marciniak and Josh Ogunnaike as their current deals expire at midnight on June 30, the standard deadline for Premier League contracts. The two under‑23 prospects remain without a fresh agreement. Earlier this month Arsenal confirmed that fifteen players from the U21, U18 and women’s squads will leave the club as free agents. Only three players were still in talks, including Caitlin Foord, who subsequently signed an extension. Tom Canton said the club has indeed been in talks with Marciniak and Ogunnaike but that no breakthrough has been achieved. As a result, the duo are set to depart unless negotiations continue after the deadline.

Arsenal join Premier League chase for Atalanta’s 18‑year‑old defender

Because both players are under‑23, any interested club must negotiate a compensation fee with Arsenal, a process that can be complex. The compensation requirement reflects the club’s investment in their development. A similar situation occurred with Dan Casey, whose move to Crystal Palace collapsed after club‑to‑club talks, despite him being out of contract with Arsenal. Casey later joined Fulham in the 2025/26 season. Arsenal’s training ground at London Colney serves as the base where the young players train and negotiate their futures. The location underscores the club’s commitment to nurturing talent within its own facilities. If Marciniak and Ogunnaike secure new contracts, they will remain at the Gunners; otherwise, Arsenal must approve any transfer fee before they can leave. The deadline does not fundamentally alter the club’s broader squad planning.