According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Marseille are close to signing Arsenal’s highly-rated winger Ethan Nwaneri on loan, with negotiations reportedly progressing rapidly.
The move means the 18-year-old will spend the remainder of the season in Ligue 1, which both Arsenal and the player see as a necessary step in his development.
Nwaneri has long been considered one of the brightest talents in English football, but his progress has stalled this season due to limited playing time.
Despite a huge showing last year, appearing in 37 games in all competitions, the teenager has struggled to find playing time amidst fierce competition.
Nwaneri is struggling for playing time at Arsenal
The additions of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, combined with the continued world-class form of Bukayo Saka in the right-wing position, have reduced Nwaneri to a bit-part role.
Mikel Arteta remains a big fan of the youngster but recognizes his limited playing time will not help him develop in the long term.
Marseille’s proposal attracted the attention of Arsenal. Manager Roberto de Zerbi has reportedly held “positive discussions” with Arteta and Nwaneri regarding the loan, stressing that the teenager will be given ample opportunity to play and develop in France.
De Zerbi has a track record of developing young players.
De Zerbi’s proven track record of developing young attacking talent, proven during his time in the Premier League, makes Ligue 1 an attractive destination.
Marseille currently lack depth in the wide areas and see Nwaneri as an immediate asset who can inject creativity and speed into their attack.
Nwaneri made his Premier League debut in September 2022 at just 15 years and 181 days old, making him the youngest player in Arsenal’s history and the youngest player in Premier League history.
Since then he has steadily risen through the ranks, winning an England youth cap and becoming a familiar fixture in Arsenal’s matchday squad.
But the next step in his development requires regular first-team football, and Marseille could provide that right away.
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