Arsenal forward Kelechi Nwakali has joined Dutch Eredivisie side VVV-Venlo on a season-long loan, the club have confirmed.

The ex-Nigerian u17 international has scored three goals in seven appearances at youth level for his country, having been signed by Arsenal a year ago from the Diamond Academy.

A move for Nwakali had been on the cards for some time. The 19-year-old previously held talks with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger earlier this summer to discuss his future.

The chance to get competitive action at a club will be far more beneficial to his development than playing in the u23s. He spent last season in Holland with MVV Maastricht, making 30 appearances and scoring twice.

And in addition to representing Nigeria’s u17s where he captained the side at the 2015 FIFA u17 World Cup in Chile – being named Player of the Tournament – the teenager has also played for the u20s.

He could have a bright future as a result so Arsenal are sure to keep tabs on his progress at VVV-Venlo. The Gunners are set to part with a host more players before the summer transfer window shuts, although it’s unknown how many will be coming in.