Arsenal are reportedly set to make a key transfer decision this summer on a Hale End wonderkid who has caught Mikel Arteta’s eye.
The Gunners’ production line at the academy level has been as prosperous as it’s been in years, with Bukayo Saka one of Arsenal’s most important senior players having graduated from Hale End and developed into one of the best wingers in the world.
With Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah also established first-team players, Arteta has done well to bring players from the academy and into the professional game, with a number of current youngsters potentially ready to make the leap next season.
And one big decision could be made on one of these players this summer.
Arsenal readying first loan move for wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri
According to the Mirror, Hale End sensation Ethan Nwaneri could be set for his first loan move away from Arsenal this summer, with the Gunners having big plans in store for the 17-year-old attacking midfielder.
Having already featured for Arsenal this season under Arteta, the Basque coach is a huge fan of Nwaneri, with the Gunners now in a position where they are reportedly willing to sell another highly-rated youngster to help the teenager’s development.
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Indeed, with Nwaneri impressing at youth level this season, a loan move could be a smart decision from Arsenal given how important these next few seasons will be for the youngster and his development.
And with first-team opportunities unlikely next season, a year away from Arsenal either in the Championship or abroad could be exactly what Nwaneri needs to take the next few steps in his career.
Arteta sending Nwaneri out on loan makes complete sense this summer
Whilst Arteta has done well in promoting the likes of Saka and Smith Rowe into the Arsenal first-team, it’s clear that the former Manchester City coach is picky when it comes to who makes the leap from the academy to the seniors.
And whilst Nwaneri looks set to become the latest Hale End graduate to make that jump, a year out on loan could be what’s needed for the youngster to develop enough to be considered by Arteta.
The potential is clearly there in Nwaneri, and a year of senior football away from Arsenal could be what’s needed to get to that level where he is ready to star in the Premier League.