Arsenal have reportedly discovered that it would take around £52.2 million to sign Eintracht Frankfurt defender Nathaniel Brown, with the German club bracing for major offers in 2026, according to reports from Florian Plettenberg.

The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in the Bundesliga, attracting interest from top European clubs including Arsenal and Manchester City.

Despite the Gunners’ current depth at left-back, Mikel Arteta’s side are said to be monitoring Brown closely as a potential long-term option.

Frankfurt’s Stand on Brown’s Future

Brown joined Eintracht Frankfurt from Nuremberg in January 2024 for a modest £2.6 million and has since developed into a key player for the club.

In just over a season, he has made 41 appearances across all competitions, contributing four goals and nine assists.

His breakout 2024–25 campaign saw him deliver ten goal contributions in the Bundesliga alone — three goals and seven assists — while operating primarily as a left wing-back.

This form was instrumental in helping Frankfurt qualify for the Champions League, and he has continued his strong performances this season with one goal and two assists from his first eight matches.

The young defender’s rise has also earned him international recognition.

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann handed Brown his senior debut in the nation’s 4-0 World Cup 2026 Qualifier win over Luxembourg, further cementing his growing reputation.

Despite the interest, Frankfurt are under no pressure to sell. Brown’s current deal runs until 2030, following a contract extension earlier this year, and it does not contain a release clause.

The club are therefore in full control of any potential transfer talks and are reportedly expecting offers around €60 million (£52.2 million) before even considering a sale.

Arsenal and Manchester City’s Interest

Both Arsenal and Manchester City have been credited with an interest in the German defender.

Arsenal’s scouting department has reportedly been tracking Brown’s progress since last season, while City are said to view him as a potential reinforcement for the left side of defence in the long term.

However, neither club urgently needs a left-back at present. Arsenal, for instance, have Riccardo Calafiori as their first-choice option on the left, while Jurrien Timber has established himself at right-back.

Myles Lewis-Skelly, who recently signed a new long-term deal, provides further cover, making a move for another left-sided defender seem unnecessary unless the club plans ahead for future exits.

Manchester City, on the other hand, have recently renewed Nico O’Reilly’s contract and continue to develop Rayan Aït-Nouri as part of their defensive rotation. A move for Brown could limit opportunities for these young players, potentially complicating squad planning at the Etihad.

Looking Ahead

Given Frankfurt’s strong financial position and Brown’s long-term contract, any move in the near future appears unlikely unless an exceptional offer is made. Still, if he continues his current trajectory, Brown could become one of Europe’s most sought-after full-backs within the next year.

For Arsenal, the interest may be more about future planning than immediate need — especially if they foresee potential changes to their defensive structure. As for Manchester City, Brown fits their typical recruitment profile: young, versatile, and technically strong.

Whether either club decides to pursue a deal in 2026 remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — Nathaniel Brown’s stock in European football is rising fast, and Frankfurt’s £52 million valuation may soon start to look like a bargain.