Forgotten Arsenal star could make shock move to Marseille

Ethan Nwaneri could be set for a move away from Arsenal as Marseille are working to sign him on a loan deal until the end of the season, according to a report by David Ornstein of The Athletic.

The Hale End graduate has found appearances hard to come by this campaign, and while he has shown a preference to remain at the club for the rest of the term, he could now secure a departure.

While nothing is agreed on a move to Ligue 1, the 10-time champions may be set to sign one of the Gunners' hottest prospects, who is in serious need of playing time.

Marseille working on loan deal for Ethan Nwaneri

Many predicted this would be the season for Nwaneri to kick on in his Arsenal career after an impressive 2024/25 campaign that saw him make his first team breakthrough as he scored nine goals and provided two assists in 37 appearances.

Despite being rewarded with an official promotion and a new squad number at the tail end of last season, he has struggled to have the same impact this time around with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard and Eberechi Eze keeping him from the starting lineup.

He has scored just once in 12 matches across all competitions so far this campaign with only four of those being starts, none of which were in the Premier League. Playing just 515 minutes, his appearances have been limited to cup competitions, having not started any league games.

The lack of playing time has seriously hindered his development as it has prevented him from receiving the minutes needed to enhance his ability, but a loan move to Marseille would open up that opportunity.

Initial reports in the opening weeks of the January window claimed Nwaneri wanted to remain at Arsenal for the rest of the season to be gain experience as part of a title-winning side, but it will be his decision over whether he makes the move to France.

The Gunners feel Marseille would be a suitable destination for the youngster as they feel Roberto De Zerbi's playing style is a good fit for their academy graduate.

The French side aren't the only club to have shown interest in Nwaneri with others in the Premier League and throughout Europe exploring a move, but some wanted a permanent deal, which Arsenal wouldn't allow, while Marseille are happy to sign him temporarily with no option to buy.

With it being three years since he made his first team debut, it's easy to forget that Nwaneri is still only 18-years-old and has a long career ahead of him. As a result, there should be no issue with him moving out on loan for the remainder of the season. Playing time will be very rare for him for the rest of this season so his best course of action is to spend time away and keep the appearances up.