Premier League giants Arsenal are expected to make a move for Aston Villa youngster Carney Chukwuemeka next summer.
A recent report from Fichajes has offered an update on Arsenal’s pursuit of Carney Chukwuemeka. It appears the Aston Villa midfielder has emerged as one of the targets for the north London giants next summer, with the youngster identified as a potential long-term replacement for Granit Xhaka.
It is no secret that Arsenal are set for a busy summer ahead. Especially in the midfield department, Mikel Arteta lacks adequate depth, with Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey being the only reliable central midfielders. There are already doubts over Xhaka’s future as well, with the Swiss international’s current deal expiring in 2024.
Arteta has enjoyed immense success with youngsters since being appointed as the head coach of Arsenal. The Spaniard has managed to nurture the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Emile Smith Rowe remarkably well, and it appears he has now his sights on Carney Chukwuemeka.
Formerly of the Northampton academy, Chukwuemeka is regarded as one of the most gifted players to come out of the Villa academy in recent years. Although yet to establish himself as a first-team regular at Villa Park, the 18-year-old has raised many eyebrows with his unquestionable talent.
As such, Aston Villa consider him as a vital prospect for the future. The youngster himself might earn a more prominent role in the first-team next season as the club look to move on from Douglas Luiz, though a lot may depend on their reported pursuit of Boubacar Kamara as a potential replacement.
Nevertheless, Aston Villa themselves could find it difficult to retain the services of Chukwuemeka. Along with Arsenal, the teenage prospect has put multiple clubs on red alert with his consistent performances in the youth leagues and with his current deal expiring in 2023, it won’t be surprising to see him depart Villa Park in the summer.
The 18-year-old could prove to be a bargain for Arsenal, as he is likely to be available for a cut-price deal. Although the youngster may not have much experience, he could certainly take his game to the next level in an Arsenal team that has developed multiple young superstars in recent years. Whether or not Chukwuemeka can follow in their footsteps or even join the Gunners next season remains to be seen.