Arsenal are reportedly tracking a promising young midfielder who has drawn comparisons to Chelsea legend Michael Essien. The Gunners face competition from Premier League rivals Bournemouth ahead of the January transfer window.
According to The Mail, Arsenal are interested in Nordsjaelland’s 19-year-old Caleb Yirenkyi, who is enjoying an impressive season in Denmark. The North London club view him as a long-term prospect, while Bournemouth see him as ready to contribute immediately under manager Andoni Iraola, following the path of other emerging talents.
Yirenkyi is valued at around £20 mln, making him an attractive deal. The Ghana international has flourished since being moved into a holding midfield role this season. He began his career as a right-sided midfielder and even made his international debut at right-back in May, but Nordsjaelland manager Jens Fonsskov Olsen transitioned him into a defensive midfielder.
This development has taken place under the guidance of Essien, 42, who serves as assistant manager at the Danish club. Yirenkyi’s performances at No6 have impressed fans and pundits alike, prompting comparisons with the former Chelsea star. The youngster credits Essien for his growth, saying:
«Michael Essien impacts every player. He helps everyone at Nordsjaelland, we learn a lot from him.»
So far this season, Yirenkyi has scored once and provided two assists in 16 appearances across all competitions. Since joining Nordsjaelland from Ghanaian club Right to Dream in 2024, he has accumulated three goals and four assists in 34 games.
Kursiv also reports that Manchester United opted not to sign Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia during the summer transfer window.
