According to reports from London Evening Standard, Arsenal have beaten Manchester City to the signing of Nigeria U17 star Kelechi Nwakali.
The Nigerian prospect won the Golden Ball award at last year’s U17 World Cup, as the Golden Eaglets lifted the title for the fifth time and in successive tournaments.
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He and team-mate Samuel Chukwueze were linked with an Emirates move soon after the competition but Manchester City – who currently have brother Chidiebere Nwakali on their books – Bayern Munich and Barcelona were also said to be courting the attacking midfielder.
According to London Evening Standard, however, recent comments from Kelechi’s other brother, Allwell, would suggest he’s decided on a north London switch due to Arsenal’s impressive track record of developing young talents.
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As quoted by LES, he said; “Arsenal are known to have a good programme for young players. They develop young stars and enhance their careers, and the records are there for anyone to see and admit that we made the right and honourable choice.”
Kelechi currently plies his trade with Diamond Football Academy and it is unknown whether a transfer fee would be involved in bringing him to the Emirates. Sibling Chidiebere, meanwhile, is spending the season on loan at Spanish second tier side Girona.