Gedion Zelalem is in talks over a move back to the United States, with Sporting Kansas City interested in a permanent transfer, according to reports.

Football.London report that Zelalem is ‘close’ to a move in the coming weeks, with talks continuing between Arsenal and the MLS club. The transfer window is shut for Premier League purchases, but the Gunners can still sell abroad, and the MLS window is open as it stands.

Arsenal are unlikely to receive a substantial fee for the player, considering his contract expires in the summer anyway. Sporting Kansas City would probably just pay the standard training compensation fee for an academy player.

Zelalem has returned from injury to play for the u23s this season, but he’s been a bit-part player at best. He’s made three starts, none of which lasted longer than 64 minutes, and his other four appearances come to a combined 48 minutes in total.

Despite that limited game time, the 22-year-old did score one goal against Brighton, a late equaliser assisted by Xavier Amaechi. Other than that, he’s struggled to have an impact despite being significantly older than many of his teammates.

A move would be the best thing for him, particularly one to the country he wishes to play for internationally. If he pushes on and impresses in the MLS, he’s likely to catch the eye of the national coaches before long. Good luck to him.