Arsenal are trying to move on as many as 12 players in the January transfer window, either on loan or permanent deals, according to David Ornstein.
We all know Eddie Nketiah is likely to move on this month after Arsenal recalled him from Leeds. According to David Ornstein on The Ornstein & Chapman Podcast, the striker could be one of many to leave Arsenal in the January window.
“Arsenal, I’m told, are looking to shift up to 12 players,” Ornstein revealed. “On loan, and/or permanently. Of course, the majority of those will be young players who need to get some game time.
“We know that Eddie Nketiah will go out on loan again, having been recalled from Leeds. Elsewhere you’ll likely see a loan for Emile Smith Rowe, depending on his fitness and finding the right option.
“I think those are the two players that clubs have come in and presented for.
“I’m not sure on any permanents, I’m not sure on any incomings at Arsenal. It could be quite a busy time for outgoings of more peripheral players.”
Other than Nketiah, Arsenal have already done one piece of transfer business so far, extending Ben Sheaf’s loan with Doncaster Rovers. Smith Rowe will make it three departures, assuming he does move on.
Coming up with another nine or 10 names would involve a lot of guesswork though.
Folarin Balogun and Tyreece John-Jules were both excellent for the u23s in the first half of the season, so a loan could really suit them. Neither have it easy getting in the first team ahead of Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Then there’s Joe Willock, who started well but is only a late option from the bench right now. Konstantinos Mavropanos (now 22) really needs a loan too. Matt Macey could move on loan or permanently if Arsenal trust in Karl Hein as the third-choice keeper.
Robbie Burton and James Olayinka got chances in the first-team midfield in pre-season, but they only have one appearance in a competitive squad each this campaign, and no senior minutes. Zech Medley is in the same boat.
As for sales, it seems Granit Xhaka will stay, but Shkodran Mustafi could leave. Any others departing for good would probably need replacing. This month could easily become a busy one.