Arsenal Braces for Bidding War as New Club Enters Transfer Race

Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah has attracted significant interest from multiple clubs, with Nottingham Forest reportedly becoming the latest team to express interest in the 25-year-old.

As Nketiah seeks regular first-team football, a transfer could be on the horizon before the summer window closes.

Nuno Espirito Santo Eyes Nketiah for Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo is keen to strengthen his squad for the upcoming Premier League season, and Nketiah has emerged as a potential target.

Forest’s current striking options, Taiwo Awoniyi and Chris Wood, have limitations, with Awoniyi’s ongoing fitness issues and Wood’s advancing age making the addition of a forward crucial.

While Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez has been frequently linked with Forest, reports now suggest that Nketiah could be the solution.

Sky Sports has reported that Nottingham Forest is considering a move for Nketiah, who is eager to secure more regular playing time.

Despite being a valuable member of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal squad, Nketiah has struggled for minutes, with his last competitive start coming in December 2023.

This has led to speculation that he may be open to a move away from the Emirates Stadium, even though his contract with Arsenal runs until 2027.

Crystal Palace and Other Clubs Competing for Nketiah

Nottingham Forest isn’t the only club interested in Nketiah. Crystal Palace has long been linked with the striker and remains a strong contender in the race for his signature.

Although previous attempts by Palace to negotiate terms with Arsenal have fallen short, their persistent interest indicates they are not ready to give up just yet.

Bournemouth was also reportedly in the running for Nketiah, but they have since shifted their focus to Brazilian forward Evanilson, with a deal already agreed upon with FC Porto.

Marseille, another club previously interested in Nketiah, has turned its attention elsewhere, signing Elye Wahi from RC Lens after their bids for Nketiah were rejected by Arsenal.

Arteta Open to Keeping Nketiah, But Arsenal Willing to Listen to Offers

Mikel Arteta has made it clear that he values Nketiah, expressing a desire to keep him in the squad.

“All the players that are here, that’s the biggest chance that they’ll stay with us,” Arteta stated following Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Lyon in the Emirates Cup.

However, the Gunners are also adopting a more sustainable approach to transfers this summer and are open to letting Nketiah leave if a suitable offer is made.

As the transfer window draws to a close, it remains to be seen whether Nketiah will remain with Arsenal or make a move to secure the first-team football he desires.

With interest from multiple Premier League clubs, Arsenal could be preparing for a bidding war over the talented striker.