Transfer: Romano reveals implications of Arsenal recalling Nwaneri from Dortmund

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has explained the financial implications if Arsenal decide to activate the recall clause in Ethan Nwaneri’s loan agreement with Borussia Dortmund.

Nwaneri completed a season-long loan move to the Bundesliga club before the summer transfer window closed. The move is aimed at giving the young midfielder regular playing time after a difficult 2025/26 season.

The 19-year-old struggled to establish himself in Arsenal’s first team last season and also had an unsuccessful loan spell with French club Olympique Marseille.

Despite those difficulties, Nwaneri secured a move to Dortmund, with Arsenal making sure a recall clause was included in the agreement.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained how the deal works financially.

“My understanding is that it is a straightforward loan, with no buy option or obligation clause,” Romano stated.

“Borussia Dortmund conceded to Arsenal, which was a vital condition; without that stipulation, the deal would not have proceeded.”

“Borussia Dortmund agreed to incorporate a specific recall clause from Arsenal into the deal. They covered the loan fee and the player’s salary.”

Romano explained that Arsenal can recall Nwaneri under the special clause, although Dortmund would be given some time to find a replacement if the recall happens outside the January transfer window.

“But if Arsenal activates the recall clause for Ethan Nwaneri and it is not during the January transfer window, regarding the timing of the clause, they would allow Borussia Dortmund some time to find a replacement.”

He also revealed what would happen to the loan fee if Arsenal bring the midfielder back.

“But apart from the timing, in terms of money, if Arsenal trigger the recall clause of Ethan Nwaneri, Borussia Dortmund gets their money back from the loan fee; they will only cover the salary.”

Dortmund brought in Nwaneri as a replacement for Giannis Konstantelias, who suffered an ACL injury shortly after joining the German club.

ALSO READ

• Transfer: No Confirmation Regarding Osimhen – Romano Names Two Strikers Tottenham Want To Sign
• Transfer: Arsenal Open To Selling Lewis-Skelly, Nwaneri This Summer

The loan move gives Nwaneri an opportunity to play regularly, regain his confidence and rebuild his form after a difficult season at Arsenal.