Football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano has disclosed the financial consequences if Arsenal opt to activate the recall option embedded in the loan agreement that facilitated Ethan Nwaneri’s move to Borussia Dortmund.
Nwaneri completed his loan transfer to Signal Iduna Park prior to the closure of the summer transfer window, aiming to secure regular playing time after a challenging 2025/2026 season.
The young midfielder faced difficulties in getting consistent appearances for the Gunners during the early part of last season and also experienced an unsuccessful loan period with Olympique Marseille in France.
Despite the challenging season, Nwaneri managed to secure a loan to the Bundesliga powerhouse, with the Premier League champions retaining a recall clause within the contract.
In a discussion on his YouTube channel, Romano elaborated on the specifics of the agreement between the two clubs and the financial ramifications if Arsenal choose to recall the midfielder.
“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.
“However, 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.
“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. So, this is how it works the special clause into the contract of Ethan Nwaneri”
Dortmund decided to acquire Nwaneri as a replacement for Giannis Konstantelias, who sustained an ACL injury shortly after his arrival at the German club.
The transfer offers Nwaneri a chance to obtain consistent playing time and rebuild his confidence following a difficult season.