£45m price tag fuels Jamie Carragher’s Arsenal critique after Shield

£45m was the reported asking price for 19‑year‑old Myles Lewis‑Skelly as Jamie Carragher questioned Arsenal’s willingness to sell the midfielder after his decisive role in the 3‑0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City at Wembley on Saturday (Picture: Getty).

Carragher’s public criticism

On social media Carragher wrote, “MLS role in that Arsenal goal! Are Arsenal really looking to push him out?” He also warned Manchester City that they “have to keep Rodri” after their humbling defeat. After the match he reiterated his surprise at the transfer stance.

Transfer saga and market reaction

Lewis‑Skelly broke into the Gunners as a central midfielder toward the end of last season, helping Arsenal clinch the title race and reach the Champions League final. The 19‑year‑old has earned six caps for England but was omitted from Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad.

Reports say Chelsea and Manchester United were offered the player last week, yet both clubs resisted entering talks. Arsenal allegedly set a £45m price tag, a figure that has drawn sharp commentary from former Liverpool legend Carragher.

Liverpool fears losing its defensive star before Manchester City clash

Arsenal’s statement of intent was evident as they thumped Enzo Maresca’s Man City 3‑0 in the one‑sided Community Shield. Lewis‑Skelly found Riccardo Calafiori with a brilliant assist inside the first 30 seconds, Kai Havertz doubled the lead, and Martin Odegaard added a third after half‑time.

Scottish legend Ally McCoist praised Lewis‑Skelly, calling him “outstanding”, while Carragher echoed the sentiment, saying the youngster “has been terrific”. Their endorsements highlight the midfielder’s rising profile within the Premier League.

Arsenal’s Premier League title defence now kicks off against newly‑promoted Coventry City on Friday night, while Manchester City welcome Bournemouth to the Etihad on the opening weekend. The Gunners’ £45m demand comes as the Reigning champions look to cement their dominance.

Charlie Nicholas chose Arsenal over Liverpool and still regrets it

Meanwhile, speculation swirls around Pep Guardiola’s future after his departure from Manchester City, with La Liga champions Barcelona rumored as his next destination. Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, who featured in the Shield win, remains a vocal observer of the evolving transfer market.