Lewis-Skelly wants to stay at Arsenal as Man Utd left-back search continues with Hall 'difficult' to sign
The teenager has been "one of the standout performers" in pre-season and captioned a title celebration photo "pure profit." Arsenal deny offering him to United, though one source says he was offered in January.
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Myles Lewis-Skelly wants to stay at Arsenal and is focused on fighting for his place, despite reports that both Manchester United and Chelsea have been offered the chance to sign the teenager.
The 19-year-old's long-term future has been debated since he slipped down the pecking order last season, falling behind Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie as Arsenal's third-choice left-back.
But his end-of-season resurgence in his natural position of centre midfield, where he was one of the club's best performers, may have sparked a rethink. He has also been one of the standout performers in pre-season and started the last two friendlies.
Arsenal deny actively offering Lewis-Skelly to anyone. However, one source told BBC Sport he was offered to Manchester United in January. Both United and Chelsea say they have been offered the chance to sign him. Arsenal insist otherwise.
What is the financial picture?
Arsenal had considered selling Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri for a combined £100 million as recently as April. As an academy graduate, any sale would represent "pure profit" on the club's books, a fact Lewis-Skelly is clearly aware of. He wrote the caption "pure profit" on a picture of himself with the Premier League trophy when Arsenal celebrated winning the title at Selhurst Park.
However, new Squad Cost Ratio rules mean that selling an academy player no longer provides the same immediate financial boost, with proceeds now spread over three seasons.
Where does this leave United?
United still need a left-back. Patrick Dorgu has been playing in an advanced role throughout pre-season, with all of his Premier League appearances under Carrick on the wing or in a wide attacking position. Luke Shaw started every league game last season but his fitness record remains a concern.
United have been linked with Newcastle's Lewis Hall but accept it would be difficult to sign him, particularly after the departures of Tonali and Guimaraes.
Lewis-Skelly could fill either the left-back or the third midfielder role United are still debating, but the feeling is the club wants a natural full-back to challenge for a starting spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are Manchester United interested in Myles Lewis-Skelly?
- United are reportedly seeking left-back cover due to Luke Shaw's patchy fitness record and Patrick Dorgu being utilised in more advanced attacking roles under Michael Carrick.
- Does Myles Lewis-Skelly want to leave Arsenal?
- The 19-year-old has reportedly stated his preference to remain in North London and establish himself as a regular starter for Arsenal, despite increased competition in the squad.
- How much would Myles Lewis-Skelly cost?
- While a specific individual price tag has not been confirmed, Arsenal previously indicated they would want a combined minimum of £100 million for Lewis-Skelly and fellow academy graduate Ethan Nwaneri.