Leeds United are trying to convince Arsenal to let them hold onto Eddie Nketiah until the end of the season, according to their chief executive.

Arsenal have the option to recall Nketiah from Leeds in January, and reports suggest they’re considering it.

Though the Gunners aren’t in particular need of a striker, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette and Gabriel Martinelli all regularly amongst the goals, they’re starting to wonder if Nketiah might get more game time on loan elsewhere.

Bristol City are one of the teams that want to take the 20-year-old until May. Leeds aren’t keen to let Nketiah leave just yet though.

“We are endeavouring to convince Eddie and the technical team at Arsenal that the coaching environment at Elland Road is still the best choice for his long-term development,” Leeds chief executive Angus Kinnear said.

Nketiah has five goals for Leeds this season, despite starting zero Championship matches. That makes him the team’s second-top scorer right now.

He also won a penalty leading to a goal against Barnsley and saw one of his shots turned in on the rebound last weekend. His impact is more than just the goal tally, and Marcelo Bielsa likes him off the bench. Just clearly not from the start.

Whether he stays, returns or joins a new club, Nketiah needs to play more. Arsenal loan manager Ben Knapper has a job to do picking the correct option in January.

Nketiah isn’t the only player Arsenal are thinking about for a January loan. Emile Smith Rowe is likely to leave, and Bayer Leverkusen hold an interest in Reiss Nelson.