Olympique de Marseille (OM) is reportedly prepared to walk away from negotiations with Arsenal over the transfer of striker Eddie Nketiah, citing the Gunners’ demands as “greedy.”

Despite OM’s offer of €27 million, Arsenal is reportedly holding out for at least €35 million, plus a sell-on clause, for the 25-year-old English international who still has three years remaining on his current Arsenal deal.

OM, under the guidance of new coach Roberto De Zerbi, had identified Nketiah as a key target to strengthen their attack. The player himself has reportedly agreed to a five-year contract with the French club, eager to play under De Zerbi’s leadership.

However, the financial gap between the two clubs is proving to be a major stumbling block.

Arsenal‘s demands have been labelled “excessive” by several sources. While Nketiah has shown promise with six goals and three assists in the 2023-2024 season, his role as a substitute at Arsenal and his current contract running until June 2027 have led many to question the validity of Arsenal‘s asking price.

Arsenal's English striker #14 Eddie Nketiah kisses the match ball as he celebrates after scoring his, and their third goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Sheffield United at the Emirates Stadium in London on October 28, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s English striker #14 Eddie Nketiah kisses the match ball as he celebrates after scoring his, and their third goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Sheffield United at the Emirates Stadium in London on October 28, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

In response to the stalled negotiations, OM has quickly shifted its focus to Borussia Dortmund‘s Youssoufa Moukoko. The 19-year-old German international, also seeking more playing time, has reportedly reached a contractual agreement with OM and is keen to join the Ligue 1 side. Negotiations for a loan with an option to buy are currently underway.

Arsenal‘s stance on Nketiah’s transfer reflects their confidence in the player’s potential and their desire to maximise their return on investment and these reports smack of the media helping Marseille drive Nketiah’s price down. However, if Arsenal are unwilling to compromise on their financial demands, they risk losing out on a potential deal altogether. With the transfer window closing in a few weeks, both clubs will need to act decisively if they want to secure their respective targets.

For Arsenal, the potential sale of Nketiah could provide additional funds for further reinforcements. However, if they fail to reach an agreement with OM, they may have to explore alternative options to offload the striker or risk keeping a potentially unhappy player on their books.