Manchester City have secured the signing of highly-rated Leicester City youngster Jeremy Monga, hijacking Arsenal's pursuit of the 16-year-old wonderkid. The deal, worth a total package of £12.5 million, includes an initial £10 million upfront payment with an additional £2.5 million in add-ons, according to reports from The Athletic. Leicester have also negotiated a sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Arsenal's Confidence Dashed
Arsenal had been in advanced talks to sign Monga, with Standard Sport reporting last month that the Gunners were confident of completing a deal to bring the teenager to north London. However, City entered the race this week and swiftly won over the player, agreeing terms with Leicester to finalize the transfer.
Enzo Maresca's Influence
New Manchester City coach Enzo Maresca, who previously managed Leicester during the 2023/24 campaign, is understood to have played a key role in negotiations. Maresca's familiarity with Monga from their time together at Leicester helped sell the player on City's long-term project.
Contract Details and Future Plans
Monga signed scholarship terms with Leicester last summer, a one-year deal that expires when he turns 17 on July 10. This arrangement meant that any move required a transfer fee to be agreed between clubs. It remains unclear whether Monga will join Maresca's first-team squad, City's development setup, or be sent out on loan for the 2026/27 season. He will aim to impress during pre-season to showcase his abilities.
Record-Breaking Youngster
Monga made his Premier League debut at just 15 years and 271 days old, making him the third-youngest player in the competition's history, behind only Max Dowman and Ethan Nwaneri. He has also represented England at various youth levels and holds the record as Leicester's youngest-ever senior goalscorer.
