BREAKING NEWS : “From what I’ve seen I think he’s better than Estevao Willian and Lamine Yamal, We are ready to sign him at all costs…He’s just like Cristiano Ronaldo”: Real Madrid president Florentino Perez confirms Real Madrid have budget £211M for Arsenal young talent. FLORENTINO PEREZ IS IMPRESSED BY ARSENAL TEENAGER.

In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through both Spain and England, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has openly admitted his admiration for a young Arsenal prodigy — claiming the club is prepared to go all-in with a £211 million budget to secure his signature. The comments have ignited excitement among Madridistas and raised eyebrows across the Premier League, especially at the Emirates.

Pérez, known for his history of building “Galáctico” squads filled with the world’s brightest stars, spoke with uncharacteristic passion during a closed media event in Madrid. “From what I’ve seen, I think he’s better than Estevão Willian and Lamine Yamal,” the president declared. “He has the mentality of Cristiano Ronaldo — hunger, drive, and the talent to change any game on his own. That kind of player doesn’t come around often, and Real Madrid is ready to act at all costs.”

While Pérez didn’t name the youngster directly, multiple Spanish outlets, including Marca and Diario AS, are reporting that the player in question is Ethan Nwaneri, the 17-year-old Arsenal sensation who has already made waves under Mikel Arteta. Sources suggest that Real Madrid scouts have followed Nwaneri closely throughout 2025, with several glowing reports forwarded to the board.

Nwaneri’s rise has been meteoric. Bursting onto the Premier League scene as Arsenal’s youngest debutant, the England youth international has quickly become a name on every scout’s radar. His flair, close control, and ability to glide past defenders have drawn comparisons not only to Ronaldo but also to a young Kylian Mbappé. Those inside Real Madrid see him as the next generational figure to lead their attack after the era of Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo.

According to insiders at Valdebebas, Madrid’s scouting department has been deeply impressed by Nwaneri’s tactical intelligence and versatility. “He plays with a maturity beyond his years,” said one scout. “He reads the game like someone who’s been in the top flight for a decade. You can’t teach that — it’s instinct.”

Florentino Pérez reportedly sees Nwaneri as a future global superstar and part of his next great vision — a Galáctico project built around the world’s finest under-20 talents. After missing out on Jude Bellingham in his early teenage years before eventually securing him for £103 million, Pérez seems determined not to let another English gem slip away.

However, persuading Arsenal to part ways with their golden prospect will be no easy task. Mikel Arteta is said to be deeply protective of Nwaneri’s development, viewing him as the crown jewel of Arsenal’s future. The North London club has no intention of selling, especially with the youngster having signed a new long-term deal earlier this year. Still, money talks — and Pérez’s war chest of £211 million may test the Gunners’ resolve.

Behind the scenes, Real Madrid’s transfer committee is already preparing scenarios for next summer. If Arsenal refuse to sell, Madrid could attempt a long-term recruitment strategy, waiting until the player nears the end of his current contract. Pérez has proven patient before, famously waiting years to bring in players like Eden Hazard and Kylian Mbappé. “We don’t chase trends,” Pérez said. “We build dynasties.”

What makes this pursuit even more fascinating is Pérez’s bold comparison to Cristiano Ronaldo, the club’s all-time top scorer. “This boy reminds me of Cristiano at Sporting,” Pérez told Spanish media. “He’s fearless, technical, and driven by perfection. I see that same spark.” The statement immediately went viral, with fans on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok dubbing Nwaneri the “New CR7.”

The buzz has reached England as well. Arsenal supporters are both flattered and worried — knowing that Real Madrid’s interest often leads to eventual transfers. When Madrid calls, history shows few players can resist. Just as Fábio Cannavaro, Luka Modrić, and Jude Bellingham once couldn’t say no, Arsenal’s young gem may one day face the same decision.

As of now, neither Arsenal nor Nwaneri’s representatives have commented publicly on the rumors. However, sources close to the player suggest that he is flattered by the interest but fully focused on his development in North London. Arteta, too, remains calm, believing his project and philosophy can convince the youngster to stay long-term.

Still, Real Madrid’s intentions are crystal clear. Pérez wants another global superstar to define the club’s next decade — and if his words are to be believed, he sees that potential in Arsenal’s teenage sensation. With a budget of £211 million and a president who rarely misses his mark, the football world may be witnessing the early stages of another blockbuster transfer saga.

The next few months will be crucial. If Nwaneri continues to shine in the Premier League and Champions League, Real Madrid’s interest will only intensify. For now, though, all eyes are on Pérez’s every move — and Arsenal fans can only hope history doesn’t repeat itself.

One thing is certain: when Florentino Pérez speaks with this level of conviction, the entire football world listens.