Bournemouth now eyeing "very impressive" Arsenal star to replace Antoine Semenyo
Bournemouth have identified Arsenal playmaker Ethan Nwaneri as a potential replacement for Antoine Semenyo, who is poised to join Manchester City, according to The Independent.
Nwaneri committed his future to the Gunners by signing a long-term deal last summer, but he has made just three starts from 11 appearances in all competitions this season.
The teenager has yet to start in the Premier League with six substitute appearances, and has not featured in the division since the 4-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur in November.
The Independent report that the Cherries are eyeing a loan deal for the Arsenal graduate to fill the void to be left by Semenyo. Arsenal would likewise prefer such an agreement.
The Gunners don’t want to sell the youngster due to his obvious talent, but are prepared to loan him out to secure regular minutes.
As things stand, Nwaneri and his entourage are not keen on a temporary move. The player wants to learn from Arsenal’s strong title challenge and plans to stay put until the summer.
If he is to eventually move next season, the preference would be a big club abroad. Borussia Dortmund were keen on his signature before he signed a new contract with the Gunners.
Arsenal have a big decision to make on Nwaneri next summer
The 18-year-old, described as ‘very impressive‘ by manager Mikel Arteta, had a fantastic breakthrough season with Arsenal last term. He managed 1378 minutes in all competitions as he benefited from injuries to Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard.
However, he has registered just 446 minutes in the ongoing campaign. The arrivals of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke have contributed to his reduced playing time in the league, particularly.
The versatile ace has been an unused league substitute for a while. Arsenal are willing to loan him out, but we are not surprised that Nwaneri wants to experience the club’s strong title pursuit.
If he were to push for a summer exit, Dortmund could well make a fresh approach. In our opinion, a season-long loan in the Bundesliga would be ideal to help realise his full potential.
If Arsenal were to consider a permanent transfer, they must secure a buy-back clause and a significant sell-on clause. The club have a big decision to make on Nwaneri at the end of the season.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
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