Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta reacts as striker Eddie Nketiah ends transfer speculation

Seb Sternik
18 June 2022

Eddie Nketiah’s contract with Arsenal expired at the end of the season, with the player subsequently linked to rival Premier League clubs.

While the likes of Brighton, Crystal Palace and West Ham all showed interest in the free agent, Nketiah ultimately decided to accept Arsenal's offer of a new long-term contract.

The striker has been with the Gunners since the age of 14 and has made 92 first-team appearances during his time at the Emirates.

Nketiah has also chipped in with 23 goals since making his first-team debut in 2017.

The 23-year-old has won the FA Cup and the Community Shield with the club and finished the most recent season in fine form, having bagged five goals in his last eight starts.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed he hopes to continue developing Nketiah's talent, telling the club's website: "I'm delighted Eddie is staying with us.

𝗢𝘂𝗿 Eddie ❤️ pic.twitter.com/sf1lOynTqT
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 18, 2022

"He represents what we are all about and all the values of the club. We are very happy that he has extended his contract and now we have to get to work and continue to develop the great talent and person that we have in him."

Technical Director Edu, added: "The foundations of this squad are built on young talent and in particular those who have come through our Academy system.

"Eddie was released by another club as a young man but has always shown he has the attitude as well as the ability to become a top player.

"The fact he's signed a new contract is an important part of our squad planning for next season and we're all delighted."

The player has been given the number 14 shirt, taking over from Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang who left the club to join Barcelona towards the end of the previous campaign.