In a developing transfer story, Arsenal’s young Brazilian winger Marquinhos is poised to move to Ligue 1 side FC Nantes on a one-year loan.

Following a stint at Norwich, the U-20 international looks set to continue his development in France.

Key Points

  • Marquinhos, Arsenal’s talented winger, is nearing a season-long loan move to FC Nantes without an option to buy.
  • After spending six months on loan at Norwich, the 20-year-old will head to France to further his development.
  • Nantes is seeking attacking reinforcements following the €15m sale of Ludovic Blas to Stade Rennais and sees Marquinhos as a key addition.
WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 18: Marquinhos #27 and Jorginho #20 of Arsenal FC speak during the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge between Arsenal FC and MLS All-Stars at Audi Field on July 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 18: Marquinhos #27 and Jorginho #20 of Arsenal FC speak during the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge between Arsenal FC and MLS All-Stars at Audi Field on July 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Marquinhos set for another loan spell

Marquinhos has shown glimpses of his potential since joining Arsenal from São Paulo in a €3.5m deal.

With six appearances and one goal scored in the Europa League group stage, he has caught the eye of FC Nantes who are looking to reinforce their attack.

A previous loan at Norwich

Marquinhos playing for Norwich City (Photo via Norwich City on Twitter)
Marquinhos playing for Norwich City (Photo via Norwich City on Twitter)

Marquinhos’ time at Norwich in the Championship provided valuable experience, with the youngster contributing a goal and an assist.

Despite Norwich failing to make the play-offs, Marquinhos’ stint in England’s second tier has been deemed productive.

Nantes’ need for reinforcements

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 18: Marquinhos #27 of Arsenal FC looks on during the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge between Arsenal FC and MLS All-Stars at Audi Field on July 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 18: Marquinhos #27 of Arsenal FC looks on during the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge between Arsenal FC and MLS All-Stars at Audi Field on July 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

FC Nantes have been in the market for attacking players after selling Ludovic Blas to Brittany rivals Stade Rennais for €15m.

The Pierre Aristouy-led side believes that Marquinhos can fill this void, bringing agility and creativity to their forward line.

Progress on the loan deal

Gabriel Jesus and Marquinhos during an Arsenal training session (Photo via Arsenal.com)
Gabriel Jesus and Marquinhos during an Arsenal training session (Photo via Arsenal.com)

Reports from Ouest-France suggest that negotiations for Marquinhos’ loan to Nantes are in the final stages.

The loan agreement does not include an option to buy, highlighting Arsenal’s belief in the young Brazilian’s long-term potential.

With the loan expected to be finalised soon, Marquinhos will likely begin the Ligue 1 season with Nantes.