Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wants Ethan Nwaneri to remain at the club despite growing transfer interest in the teenage attacking midfielder following his loan spell at Marseille.
Nwaneri spent the second half of last season with the French club, gaining valuable first-team experience after finding opportunities at ARSENAL increasingly difficult to come by. His performances during the loan have attracted attention from several European clubs, with Borussia Dortmund and Galatasaray understood to be monitoring his situation.
Despite the interest, Arteta is keen for Nwaneri to continue his development in north London and believes the 19-year-old has a future at Arsenal: “I want him to be at the club. But in the medium, long term, what is best for the player as well.
“And Ethan needs to play football. And if he stays here, it is because we can guarantee him that he can have those minutes.
“Otherwise it is something that is not good for anybody, I think.”
His loan move to Marseille was viewed as an important step in that development, providing Nwaneri with greater exposure to senior football and the opportunity to compete regularly at a high level.
The manager’s comments suggest the club will not stand in Nwaneri’s way if a move ultimately emerges that is judged to be better for his career. ARSENAL are therefore expected to consider both the player’s ambitions and his prospects for regular first-team football before making a final decision.
With the new season approaching, Nwaneri’s position is likely to remain a key talking point at the Emirates, with Arsenal facing a decision over whether to keep the youngster in their first-team plans or sanction another move to accelerate his development
MORE ARSENAL NEWS AND GOSSIP –
Top Read: Brand New signing sends Arsenal message – £42M star keen join Gunners – Arteta can sign target for £86M
Most Read: Arsenal agree deal with Germans for midfielder – Gunners ready sign £75m forward – Gunners on verge announcing deal for winger
Must Check Out: CONFIRMED MOVE! Midfielder ‘FEELS AMAZING’ after Arsenal wrap up bargain summer deal!