WORLD Cup winning Golden Eaglets captain Kelechi Nwakali will commence pre-season training with English Premiership side Arsenal in the hope of securing a first team slot ahead of the forthcoming 2016/17 campaign.
Kelechi Nwakali and Arsenal’s manager Arsene Wenger
Nwakali, who recently turned 18, was awarded the golden boot having been judged the best player of the U17 World Cup that took place in Chile last year which Nigeria won. Following Nwakali’s heroics at the tournament, several European sides looked at signing him and after considering several offers, he has opted for Arsenal.
In March this year, Nwakali signed a five year deal with Arsenal at the Emirates worth around £3m. Under the terms of the deal, the mercurial midfielder was to officially become a Gunner when he turns 18 and having just reached that landmark, on June 5, he is now eligible to vie for a team shirt next season.
Nigerian starlet Kelechi Nwakali has confirmed he is moving to Arsenal via Facebook.
The 18-year-old midfielder posted photos online of him with Arsene Wenger and Laurent Koscielny, as well as him holding up his new shirt.
He stated that his “new life begins” at Arsenal.
Nwakali had also been chased by Manchester City and Bayern Munich but was determined to work with Arsene Wenger and has signed a five-year deal with the club.
Speaking after signing his contract in March, he said: “I just came back from London, I have signed a five-year contract with Arsenal.
“So many teams were interested in me but it has been my dream at a tender age to play for Arsenal.”
We wish Kelechi all the best in his new life at Arsenal.
