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Arsenal set to battle Man City in the race to sign Bundesliga defender – Report

European Giants Circle Frankfurt Defender

Arsenal, Manchester City and Real Madrid are among several elite clubs monitoring Eintracht Frankfurt’s emerging full-back Nathaniel Brown, according to Bild. The 22-year-old made his senior debut for Germany in their recent 4–0 win over Luxembourg, marking another major step in his rapid rise from Bundesliga prospect to full international.

Bild claims Brown’s performances have “attracted interest from absolute top clubs,” with AC Milan already making a move in the summer of 2024 that was swiftly rejected by the player. Brown reportedly made it clear that he wanted to “continue developing at Frankfurt,” despite firm interest from the Premier League.

At Eintracht, officials are well aware that the growing attention is only the beginning. Bild reports that “the interest is becoming greater and the suitors even more prominent,” as Arsenal and City have now joined the list of admirers.

Brown’s Skillset Drawing Elite Attention

What makes Brown so appealing, according to the report, is his “high football intelligence combined with enormous speed,” a blend that is rare in European football at left-back. He has made notable strides defensively, showing positional maturity well beyond his age.

Joshua Kimmich praised the youngster after Germany’s win, saying: “He did well, especially against Michael. I had him on my radar already.” That endorsement has only fuelled the perception that Brown could soon make the step to a top-tier club.

Frankfurt Set for Future Windfall

Frankfurt stand firm that no transfer will happen before next summer, with Brown’s focus currently on both his club and the national team. Bild adds that he is “completely calm about his future,” preferring to concentrate on consistent performances rather than speculation.

Any eventual deal would be lucrative for Frankfurt. Brown extended his contract earlier this year until 2030, and crucially, there is no release clause. Having signed for just €3 million from Nürnberg in 2024, his market value has already soared after impressive performances in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.

International Choice Reflects Character

Brown’s decision to represent Germany over the United States also underlines his ambition and maturity. The USA reportedly “tried with all their might” to secure him for the Gold Cup, but he opted for Germany’s U21 Euros instead, demonstrating his long-term commitment to the DFB pathway.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Nathaniel Brown fits the exact mould of player Mikel Arteta and Berta have targeted recently: intelligent, athletic, and tactically adaptable.

Arsenal’s left flank has seen consistency issues with injuries and rotation, and Brown’s profile offers an ideal balance between attacking width and defensive reliability. Fans will be intrigued by his pace and reading of the game, traits reminiscent of the modern full-backs Arteta values for their ability to invert or overlap depending on the tactical setup.

However, the competition is fierce. Manchester City’s inclusion in the race, coupled with Real Madrid’s interest, means Arsenal will need to move decisively. Supporters are accustomed to seeing young talents slip away when transfer negotiations drag, and with Brown under contract until 2030, Frankfurt hold all the leverage.

Still, for Arsenal fans, this link reinforces the sense that the club are scouting wisely and preparing for the next evolution of their squad. Brown’s calm character and upward trajectory make him an enticing prospect, one who could define the next generation of full-backs in European football.