Marseille have sent first offer to Arsenal for striker Eddie Nketiah

Marseille have sent an opening transfer offer to sign Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah, according to Foot Mercato.

The 25-year-old registered six goals and three assists from 37 appearances for the Gunners last term. He was largely a substitute and did not feature in the final six games of the Premier League season.

Nketiah has now given the green light for a move to Ligue 1 with Marseille and it is reported that the Gunners graduate has almost agreed personal terms over a long-term contract.

Les Phoceens are also making progress over a transfer. They have now sent an official bid to Arsenal for Nketiah, though the fee on the table remains undisclosed at the moment.

Nketiah could be on his way to Marseille

Nketiah started the previous campaign as an immediate deputy to Gabriel Jesus. He received plenty of playing time during the first half of the season due to the Brazilian’s injury woes.

However, his minutes drastically reduced during the back end of the campaign. Aside from Jesus, the likes of Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard were also preferred ahead of him in the number nine role.

Havertz made the position his own during the season run-in. With Arsenal possibly eyeing another marquee striker, it makes sense for Nketiah to pursue a new challenge away from the club.

The Gunners are eyeing at least £30 million for the marksman. In our view, it appears a fair value for him, considering he could easily hit the 15-20 goal mark per season with guaranteed playing time.

Nketiah, who was described as ‘fantastic‘ by Ian Wright after his maiden club hat-trick against Sheffield United last year, could quickly adapt at Marseille due to Roberto De Zerbi’s high pressing playing style which is similar to Arsenal’s.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com