Arsenal forced into loaning midfielder after work permit issues

Arsenal are set to send summer signing Kelechi Nwakali out on a season-long loan ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

The Gunners signed the Nigerian teenager in June – who turned 18 earlier this year, on a five-year deal, with it thought that Nwakali would go straight into the under-21s set-up ahead of next season.

However, AfricanFootball.com report that the African star is struggling to gain a work permit and due to not yet being in Arsene Wenger’s first-team plans, may be sent out on loan to a side where he will gain valuable experience that he can use upon his return to the north London side.

“Nwakali is not in (Arsene) Wenger’s immediate plans and it will take some time before his application for a work permit is processed and so it is most likely he will be sent out on loan possibly to a club in Belgium.”

The ex-Diamond Football Academy midfielder was due to sign for the club alongside teammate Samuel Chukwueze but talks to sign the latter fell apart and it’s believed that FC Porto are closing in on a swoop for his services.

Nwakali was awarded the Player of the Tournament at last year’s FIFA under-17 World Cup.