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Arsenal could decide to sell their ‘underrated’ player if they sign £80m Premier League star

Milo Clay

Tue 26 December 2023 11:15, UK

Ben Jacobs has suggested that Arsenal could change their stance on Eddie Nketiah’s future should they sign Ivan Toney.

The journalist has insisted that Arsenal have no plans to sell Eddie Nketiah next month. But he feels they will only change their mind should a new striker arrive. 

Nketiah is yet to nail down a place in Mikel Arteta’s side, with Gabriel Jesus currently the favoured option to lead the line.

In truth, both players have struggled in the final third this term with the duo managing just eight Premier League goals between them.

It’s led to suggestions that Arsenal could launch a move for Ivan Toney in January, with Arteta keen to bolster his options in the title race.

That would surely leave Nketiah’s future in doubt, despite the fact Arteta is reportedly keen to keep hold of the Hale End Academy product.

And Ben Jacobs has shared a fresh update on Nketiah’s future amid claims Arsenal will move for Toney.

Arsenal could consider Nketiah sale

Speaking to , the journalist insisted that Arsenal don’t want to sell Nketiah at the moment. 

But their stance could change if Toney arrives at the Emirates Stadium in the near future.

“I don’t think Arsenal want to sell Nketiah. Of course, the player perspective is also important (it was especially so, for example, with Folarin Balogun’s exit), but the Arsenal forward is seen as really important,” Jacobs said.

“Arsenal will need depth and goals to win the Premier League and not fade like last season. And part of their stumble down the stretch was down to the injury to William Saliba and not having enough cover.

“I sense Arsenal will only change their view on Nketiah if they bring in another striker. It’s true Toney would welcome an approach from Arsenal.”

Nketiah has proven to be a decent backup option for Arteta over the past 18 months. Indeed, the 24-year-old has been lauded as an ‘underrated’ player at Arsenal. 

Yet, you could argue that Nketiah isn’t the kind of striker who’s capable of propelling Arsenal to a league title.

The Englishman has also attracted interest from Brentford recently, with Arsenal keen on on the -rated Toney. 

You’d imagine that if the Gunners could pull off a move for the Bees striker, Nketiah could head out the door as a result.

But it’s difficult to see Arteta allowing Nketiah to leave next month as the Spaniard will need depth towards the business end of the season.