Arsenal’s promising young striker Eddie Nketiah has made the switch to Leeds United on a season-long loan deal.
Arsenal fans are eagerly waiting for the transfer window to end, but before that are expecting a flurry of signings. While they await confirmations on at least two deals, there has been an outgoing player at the Emirates. Arsenal have confirmed the departure of promising young striker Eddie Nketiah on a season-long loan deal to Leeds United.
The young striker is yet to have his breakthrough season at Arsenal, and this loan deal will be a good time for him to gain experience. Nketiah was used primarily for cup games and the Europa League last season and made minimal impact. However, manager Unai Emery values the talent of the youngster and hence sanctioned a loan move to Leeds where he will gain experience.
All the best for this season at @LUFC, @EddieNketiah9 ?
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 8, 2019
Nketiah did get a late run in the Premier League last season and scored his first goal in the competition on the last day of the season. While Arsenal have had a good summer in the transfer window, there were a few departures expected. The club-record signing of Nicolas Pepe also complicates matters for Nketiah as he might have played far less than expected.
Additionally, Arsenal are currently top-heavy with Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubaeyang firmly establishing themselves in the side. Nketiah might have got few chances, but that would have hampered his development at Arsenal and for his future.
The move to Leeds makes sense over other sides that might have been interested. Leeds narrowly missed out in promotion last season under Marcelo Bielsa, although they would likely push for it this season. Nketiah will probably learn a great deal from a manager like Bielsa and will be hoping to help their cause this season.
Arsenal are now expected to announce at least two deals before tonight. David Luiz is likely to join after agreeing to a 2-year-deal with Arsenal. The agreement is set to cost Arsenal 8 million. On the other hand, Kieran Tierney has also joined the club from Celtic in a 25 million deal, thus helping Emery shore up his leaky defence.
As for Nketiah, this could be a crucial season. Even though Leeds are playing in the Championship, he will be looking to make a mark on the side and help them gain promotion to the Premier League next season. His Arsenal future will be determined by his performances at Leeds and what he could bring to team next season when he returns.
