With just one day left in January 2017, the transfer window is coming to a close for clubs across Europe. For many sides there’s a late dash for incoming players, but all is quiet as per usual at the Emirates, with Wenger seemingly not interested in adding any fresh faces to his squad.
Despite the lack of transfer activity on the incoming front, it seems there is a fair bit of movement in terms of players possibly leaving the club before the window shuts. It’s been revealed today that youth talent Chuba Akpom is set for a loan move away, whilst fellow young prodigy Ismael Bennacer may be following in his footsteps.
Bennacer is highly regarded as being a top talent in the Arsenal youth set up. The 19 year old has been a predominant figurehead in the youth teams since his move in 2015 and is recognised as a potential star of the future. Despite a lack of game time under Arsene Wenger, it doesn’t necessarily mean that all hope is lost on becoming a regular for Arsenal in the first team. In fact, Wenger may see the second half of this season as being the perfect opportunity for Bennacer to get some much needed playing experience on a consistent and competitive level. Bennacer has been linked with a few sides in France, but Tours seems to be the most likely destination for the young midfielder. A six month contract has reportedly been laid down on the table and it seems all parties are interested in the move.
Bennacer made his last first team appearance for the Gunners in the 3-0 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday last season. The result shocked many, including Bennacer who hasn’t been given another opportunity under Wenger since. His lack of minutes or breakthrough into the first team may cause a bit of concern amongst many fans, especially those that are keen to see talent promoted from within our own youth team set up. But the midfielder is already a member of the Algerian national team and I think this loan move to the French division could be the perfect opportunity for Bennacer to show the Gunners exactly what skills he holds on a regular basis.
By AH
I liked Akpom when he played for us before going to Hull, but he will have to start scoring prolifically on loan if he has any chance of coming back into the Arsenal squad.
Let’s hope he does well enough so that we can get a good price for him at least!