‘Eddie is staying’: Nketiah signs new long-term contract at Arsenal

Eddie Nketiah has ended speculation about his future by signing a new long-term Arsenal contract, the club have announced. The 23-year-old, who has been with the Gunners since the age of 14, had been in the final few weeks of his previous deal. Nketiah had been linked with a move to Crystal Palace but has now committed his future to Arsenal until 2027.

Nketiah scored 10 goals in all competitions in 2021-22, including five in seven Premier League matches at the end of season. He will take the No 14 shirt, recently vacated by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and previously worn by Thierry Henry, from next season.

Mikel Arteta told the club’s website: “I’m delighted Eddie is staying with us. 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.”

Arsenal’s technical director, Edu, said securing Nketiah’s future was important for maintaining a youthful squad. “The foundations of this squad are built on young talent and in particular those who have come through our academy system,” he said. Arsenal picked the striker up after Chelsea let him go in 2015, the year he turned 16. “Eddie was released by another club as a young man,” the Brazilian continued, “but has always shown he has the attitude as well as the ability to become a top player.”