Arsenal plan to send Kelechi Nwakali out on loan to Europe at the start of the season

ENGLISH Premiership side Arsenal has finalised plans to send former Golden Eaglets skipper Kelechi Nwakali out on loan at the start of the forthcoming season in a bid to enable him gain experience.

 

Nwakali, who recently turned 18, was awarded the golden boot having been judged the best player of the U17 World Cup that took place in Chile last year which Nigeria won. Following Nwakali's heroics at the tournament, several European sides looked at signing him and after considering several offers, he has opted for Arsenal.

 

In March this year, Nwakali signed a five year deal with Arsenal at the Emirates worth around £3m. Under the terms of the deal, the mercurial midfielder was to officially become a Gunner when he turns 18 and having just reached that landmark, on June 5, he is now eligible to vie for a team shirt next season.

 

An Arsenal spokesman said: “Kelechi, who joined us as a young professional, will look to gain experience with a loan move in the coming months.”

 

Diamond Academy of Umuahia has hit a jackpot by netting a total of £2.5 following the transfer Kelechi Nwakali to Arsenal. Diamond Academy was paid 10% of that sum when the deal was first agreed and will be paid the balance any time from now after the player’s International Transfer Certificate is transmitted to the English Football Association.