Arsenal: 7 pre-season players in line for transfer departures

7. Eddie Nketiah – Striker

Interested clubs: Brighton, Crystal Palace, West Ham

Eddie Nketiah has had a rough ride from supporters over the past 12 months. Naturally, and especially on social media, the criticism turns to unwarranted abuse and is blown way out of proportion, but there is no hiding from the fact he’s been disappointing.

Rejecting the contract offered to him by Arsenal was the right decision. At 21 years old he needs stability in his career and having not been chosen at all during the latter half of last season despite the injuries to other strikers, what use is it to him going on loan for a season only to return and be sold off again?

He won’t have the pick of the division when it comes to his summer move but there are, like Nelson, a few pleasant options for him to explore.

There were unsubstantiated claims of a £12m bid from Crystal Palace for his services with Arsenal holding out for more, which if true they might need to ease off on. £15m would be more than ideal.

However, as the window progresses the Gunners aren’t in a position to play hardball unless they can drum up a bidding war, which seems unlikely.

(there is also Willian and Cedric but it just won’t happen, will it? Alexandre Lacazette also appears to be staying)