Bournemouth are eyeing a loan deal to sign Ethan Nwaneri from Arsenal, according to Miguel Delaney of The Independent.
The 18-year-old wonderkid has already made 50 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 10 goals and providing two assists along the way. Despite being highly rated by Mikel Arteta, the attacking midfielder has been limited to just three starts in 11 appearances so far this term as he struggles to break into Arsenal's title-challenging side.
While time is on his side, Nwaneri does have a big decision to make regarding his future at Arsenal under Arteta during the January transfer window.
Nwaneri Lined Up For Bournemouth Loan
Odegaard and Nwaneri
Bournemouth are keen to offer Nwaneri an escape route in the shape of a loan deal until the end of the season. Their interest is with a view to a straight loan with no permanent deal discussed.
While a move makes sense, Delaney reports that the 18-year-old would rather stay in North London until at least the end of the season. He sees Arsenal as the best place for his development if he can be in and around a title-challenging side.
The Gunners do not want to sell the player, but see the value in his gaining first team experience elsewhere. However, a move away could will be down to Nwaneri. If he does move on, he could be more tempted by a move to a big club from the continent with Borussia Dortmund linked in the summer.
Iraola Searching For Semenyo Replacement
semenyo bournemouth
Bournemouth's pursuit of Nwaneri is, in part, due to their need to replace Antoine Semenyo. The forward is closing in on a move away from the Cherries with a £65million exit expected to be completed in the coming days with Manchester City his likely replacement.
If Semenyo's move is finalised, Andoni Iraola will need extra attacking quality and could look to Nwaneri as the ideal addition.
Described as 'phenomenal',
the 18-year-old is technically gifted and has a real eye for goal which would be a huge plus for the Cherries. Bournemouth have an excellent track record of improving young and talented players and Nwaneri feels like a perfect fit for the club. If he can be convinced to go, a loan spell with Bournemouth could prove to be the making of him.
However, with the midfielder still so young, there's plenty of time for him to fulfill his potential if it doesn't happen this term.
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