C/Palace targeting late move for Arsenal youngster Nketiah

 

Crystal Palace have registered an interest in signing Arsenal youngster Eddie Nketiah this summer.

Nketiah’s current deal at the Emirates expires next year and the Gunners are prepared to sell the 22-year-old rather than let him leave on a free transfer.

According to The Athletic, Patrick Vieira is said to be ready to part with £10million to sign the forward as he looks to strengthen his squad.

Nketiah rose through the ranks at Arsenal’s academy but has fallen down the pecking order under Gunners boss Mikel Arteta this year.

He made 29 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal last season and scored six goals, but failed to cement a regular place in the starting XI.

As a result, the north London club could be willing to sell the youngster for around £20m this summer.

However, according to The Athletic, Palace would only be willing to pay £10m for the forward – who is currently suffering with an ankle injury.

Vieira could struggle to land the striker, with Arsenal having already rejected two offers from Germany which failed to meet their £20m asking price.

When asked about Nketiah’s lack of game time previously, Arteta confessed that he was sorry that he couldn’t give the academy graduate more opportunities.

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‘It hurts as well because of how Eddie behaves and trains every day and because he’s a player from our academy, but he will have his chance,’ he said.

‘He needs to be patient and he’s showing no signs of lacking attitude or anything like that, it’s the complete opposite.

‘He’s a joy to work with and he deserves minutes and if he doesn’t get it, it’s just my fault.’