Ethan Nwaneri has posed in Marseille’s colours for the first time after agreeing to join the club on loan from Arsenal for the remainder of the season.
The attacking midfielder is widely regarded to be among the most exciting talents in English football having broken into Arsenal’s first-team squad at the age of just 15.
But Nwaneri, now aged 18, has struggled for regular minutes for the high-flying Gunners this season, failing to make a single start in the Premier League under Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal had initially been reluctant to consider loan offers from within the Premier League for Nwaneri, with West Ham and Bournemouth both credited with a strong interest.
However, the north London outfit changed their stance when Marseille entered the running for the teenager and discussions have progressed at a pace over the last 48 hours.
Nwaneri and his entourage travelled to France for a medical earlier today and the finishing touches regarding a temporary agreement have now been completed, with official announcement of the move imminent.
‘William Saliba told me that Marseille are one of the best clubs in the world,’ Nwaneri revealed as he proudly held aloft a club scarf in Marseille this evening.
Get your football fix
Don’t want to miss the week’s biggest football stories? Metro’s exclusive football newsletter, In The Mixer, is your essential guide.
From the latest transfer rumours and managerial moves to analysis of the biggest games and a lot more, our experts have you covered.
Sign up here, it’s an open goal.
‘Roberto De Zerbi is also one of the best coaches in the world.’
It’s understood Feyenoord defender Quinton Timber, the brother of Arsenal full-back Jurrien, will also be presented to Marseille fans over the coming hours.
More to follow.
