Samuel Chukwueze has given an explanation on why he was unable to complete a transfer to Arsenal in 2015.
The Villareal winger is having an impressive season for Quique Setien’s side, registering 11 goals and 11 assists in all competitions.
While it seemed as if Arsenal could have secured the transfer of Samuel Chukwueze as a youngster, the reason why the move broke down has now been detailed.
Samuel Chukwueze explains why Arsenal transfer broke down
In late March, a report made the claim that Everton and Aston Villa could potentially sign the dynamic wideman for a bargain fee of £15 million.
However, it seems the in-form forward could have been a Gunner as a teenager.
In an interview with Spanish newspaper El Periodico Mediterraneo, Samuel Chukwueze gave a lowdown on why his transfer to Arsenal failed to come to fruition.
“From the [2015 U-17] World Cup I went to Arsenal to sign a contract, but it got complicated because they didn’t reach an agreement with my academy. I went through Salzburg and Porto before being lucky enough to come to Villarreal. And I signed a pre-contract at the age of 17.”
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“They told me that I had to return at the age of 18 before signing the final contract as a professional. I said, ‘Okay, no problem.’ I returned to Nigeria and started training with my academy again.”
And it seems that was that.
Chukwueze could have become a monster at London Colney
Imagine a winger as direct, skilful and rapid as Samuel Chukwueze training at Arsenal from such a young age.
Consider how Mikel Arteta’s side have managed to turn young prospects like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli into arguably the most devastating wing duo in the world.
Chukwueze could well have developed at such a staggering rate, had he been coached by some of the best youth coaches in Europe.
In other news, “Tragic”: Sean Dyche mocks Tottenham No.10 Harry Kane
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