Arsenal’s Hale End graduate Eddie Nketiah is the subject of a new bid from Ligue 1 side Olympique Marseille. The French side have been ever so adamant in signing a forward this window and have looked to restart negotiations after a couple of bids being rejected in the previous weeks.
Marseille rekindle Eddie Nketiah interest
According to David Ornstein, the talks have restarted again between the two clubs after a pause in negotiations over the last few weeks and the Gunners are ready to sanction a potential Eddie Nketiah exit. Nketiah’s has sold himself to the project under Robert De Zerbi due to how convincing it was for the English international. Marseille are happy to restart negotiations, but they will only advance in the deal on their condition.
Arsenal ready to sanction Eddie Nketiah exit for Marseille. Proposed deal season-long loan + buy obligation in region of €30m. Personal terms for 25yo #AFC striker agreed on 5yr contract. Ball now in #OM court to decide if proceed or not @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/mweGgRYqbZ
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 9, 2024
Eddie Nketiah has managed to make 149 appearances for Arsenal in just under a decade since joining the club, scoring 35 times in those games. Although most of his appearances were off the bench due to the quality of players above him at CF over his time, he’s been a constant member of Arteta’s team.
With Arsenal nearing Phase 5 of their project to success, Nketiah is one such member who is expected to leave the club, making it a good decision for both sides involved.
Where can Eddie Nketiah fit in at Olympique Marseille
Eddie Nketiah is more than just an out-and-out striker over the years for Arsenal; he’s matured his overall output, although it’s not reflected majorly in his statistics. Nketiah’s ability to drop deep into spaces, make half turns, and play passes on either wings helps him progress with the ball as a striker.
The English international is a is a better facilitator than a potent striker. However, he’s a fox in the box and positions himself brilliantly that helps him score most of his goals. Despite not being the tallest of players, his aerial ability is quite commendable, and he’s also a very good presser too.
With former Marseille strikers Aubameyang and Ndiaye departing the club ahead of next season, it is clear that they are in need of a new striker. The new man in charge, De Zerbi, who headed Brighton in the Premier League last season, had some great attacking variations with his front line that entertained viewers for its fluidity and constant ability to create chances.
Eddie could be used in order to hold the ball for longer with his back to goal, attract defenders, and make spaces for other teammates. He could bring a lot to the team apart from just scoring goals, which makes sense to why he’s been their target this window.
Author’s Opinion
Personally, Nketiah seems like a brilliant fit under the dynamics De Zerbi would task him to play under. It would also be a new experience to showcase his skills in France and also bring the other players besides him into the game with his prolific outlet play.
Quite underappreciated in the Premier League, but don’t be surprised if he does well there.
