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Arsenal's summer got a whole lot more complicated this week. The Gunners reportedly offered 19-year-old academy product Myles Lewis-Skelly to Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United — and both clubs sent back a flat rejection.
The move, described by former England captain Rio Ferdinand as "a shock to the system," came as Arsenal looked to free up funds following their heavy spending on midfield reinforcements this summer. Lewis-Skelly, a versatile and physically impressive talent who broke into Mikel Arteta's first team last season, was reportedly available for around £70m.
Ferdinand Urges United to Think Twice
Speaking publicly about the situation, Ferdinand didn't hold back. He urged Manchester United to get the chequebook out and pursue the teenager regardless of any awkwardness with his current employer. "Get it done," he said, adding that Lewis-Skelly is the kind of generational talent clubs can't afford to pass on over politics.
Despite that endorsement, United's hierarchy reportedly declined — as did Chelsea under Xabi Alonso, who have already made seven signings this summer and appear satisfied with their squad depth at left-back following the arrival of Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano.
What Next for Lewis-Skelly?
With two of the most natural destinations shutting the door, Arsenal face a dilemma. Either they hold onto a player who clearly has a future at the club, or they find a buyer elsewhere — possibly in Europe. For now, it looks like Lewis-Skelly will remain at the Emirates, which may well be the outcome Arteta quietly wanted all along.
At just 19, with a new long-term deal already signed earlier this year, Arsenal's refusal to let him go cheaply makes sense. The rejection from Chelsea and United might just have done Arteta's squad a favour.
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