According to French football expert Jonathan Johnson, negotiations between Arsenal and Marseille over the transfer of striker Eddie Nketiah have hit a snag. In his latest Daily Briefing column for CaughtOffside, Johnson reveals that the main obstacle is the difference in valuation between the two clubs.
Nketiah, 25, has become a prime target for Marseille during this ambitious transfer window, but the deal is proving more complicated than expected. Marseille, who have already signed Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from the Premier League and hired Roberto De Zerbi as manager, are eager to add Nketiah to their squad. However, the gap in valuation is stalling the move.
Financial Fair Play Considerations
From Arsenal’s perspective, selling Nketiah would be beneficial as it would represent pure profit for a homegrown player, aiding their Financial Fair Play compliance. Johnson anticipates that Arsenal will want to cash in on the backup striker if possible.
Marseille’s Ambitious Transfer Window
Johnson expects Marseille to continue making significant signings before the summer is over. He commented on Marseille’s impressive transfer activities so far, stating, “Marseille have signed Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg this summer, and now Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah is another Premier League player they’re looking at. The latest on the deal is that there is some distance between what Arsenal want for Nketiah and what Marseille would be ready to offer. There is a desire, however, from Roberto De Zerbi to bring in that kind of player.”
Johnson also highlighted Marseille’s ambition and strategic planning under De Zerbi, suggesting more significant moves in both attack and defense are likely. “It’s a summer that’s been fascinating so far, and I think the Nketiah move isn’t one that many people will have seen coming, so let’s see what happens and if there are any others that De Zerbi knows from his time in the Premier League that he might be keen to bring to Marseille,” he added.
Conclusion
The negotiations between Arsenal and Marseille for Eddie Nketiah are ongoing, but the outcome remains uncertain due to the valuation differences. As both clubs navigate this complex deal, the potential transfer could significantly impact their plans for the upcoming season.
