Boost for Man Utd as EPL rivals open to selling ‘unbelievable’ full-back wanted by INEOS

Manchester United’s search for a long-term solution at left-back has received unexpected encouragement after it emerged that Premier League leaders Arsenal are willing to listen to offers for teenage defender Myles Lewis-Skelly. According to BBC journalist Sami Mokbel, the Gunners could sanction the sale of the 19-year-old this summer as they look to raise around £100 million through the departures of academy graduates, with attacking midfielder Ethan Nwaneri also available.

Lewis-Skelly, who burst onto the scene during the 2024/25 campaign before seeing his progress stall this season, has found first-team opportunities scarce following the arrivals of Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie, both of whom have been deployed at left-back by manager Mikel Arteta. With Gabriel and William Saliba established as the first-choice central pairing, the London-born defender has slipped down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium.

United, currently third in the table and on course for a return to European competition, have identified left-back as a priority position. Luke Shaw’s ongoing fitness issues and the impending free-agent exit of Tyrell Malacia have left the club short of natural options, while summer signing Patrick Dorgu has looked more effective in advanced areas. Intermediaries have already offered Lewis-Skelly to Old Trafford officials, and INEOS are now weighing up whether to make an official approach.

Although the teenager would command a significant fee—unlike recent bargain arrivals Chido Obi and Ayden Heaven—his 37 Premier League appearances to date suggest a readiness for senior football. Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright labelled Lewis-Skelly “unbelievable” after a standout display against Real Madrid, and United believe the lack of competition at left-back could allow him to establish himself quickly in Erik ten Hag’s rotation.

Arsenal’s willingness to negotiate means the final decision rests with United technical director Jason Wilcox and recruitment chief Christopher Vivell, who must decide whether the England youth international represents value in a market where home-grown talent carries a premium. With the Gunners aiming to recoup a combined £100 million from the sales of Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri, any deal is likely to require a sizeable outlay, yet the opportunity to secure a highly rated, Premier League-proven full-back may prove too tempting for the Red Devils to ignore.