Mikel Arteta's decision to recall Charles Sagoe Jr from his loan spell at Shrewsbury Town could cause a stir at the Emirates Stadium.
The 20-year-old spent time in Fulham's youth academy before joining the ranks of Arsenal's academy in 2015. He signed his first professional contract for the club in 2023, although he has made just one senior appearance for the North London club. so far in the form of a Carabao Cup appearance against Brentford in September 2023.
Instead, the promising youngster has enjoyed loan spells at Swansea City and Shrewsbury respectively. Although Sagoe Jr. has made 18 appearances for the latter since joining the team on a temporary basis in August, Arsenal are said to have shown dissatisfaction with the amount of playing time he has received, a total of just 852 minutes in all competitions.
The left winger has made just five starts in League One, coming off the bench eight times, while failing to score a single goal or assist during his time at Town. He also appeared five times in cup competitions. And while Arsenal fans might be quick to believe that Sagoe Jr. will temporarily fill in for the recently injured Bukayo Saka, this is unlikely to be the case as he plays in the same position.
Shrewsbury Town wrote on social media: “Shrewsbury Town can confirm that Charles Sagoe Jr has returned to parent club Arsenal. We would like to thank Charles for all his hard work over the past five months. The club wishes him and his family every success for the future.”
And a number of fans were sad to see the highly rated prospect leave Shropshire, with one writing: “Thanks Charles. All the best for the future,” while another added: “Hardly got a chance of him thriving elsewhere. “
Saka, 23, is expected to be sidelined for around two months after suffering a hamstring tear during the Gunners' 5-1 win over Crystal Palace in December – a problem for which he underwent surgery. Although Sagoe Jr. has been recalled to the Emirates Stadium for the time being, it is likely that Arteta and the Arsenal board will look for new loan space elsewhere to develop given his lack of experience.
The club also has a number of players who could fill in for the time being in Saka's absence, with Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli both valid options in the future. However, Arteta could also look to use the well-timed January transfer window to secure emergency cover for the young England international.
Reports suggest that Arsenal could consider Euro 2024 winner Nico Williams, who would not only improve the squad but also provide the option to fill Saka's boots. Sources claim the 22-year-old is open to leaving Spain and exploring other avenues.
The fast winger has been a mainstay for Athletic Bilbao since 2021. He scored 22 goals and provided 31 assists in 146 appearances for La Liga. Although he is under contract until July 2027, a £48.1 million release clause in his contract could result in a £48.1 million deal. It's proving too tempting to pass up, especially considering Arsenal and a number of other top clubs were considering a move for him in the summer.
Elsewhere, Arteta is also said to have his eye on West Ham striker Mohammed Kudus and the club have held internal discussions about the player. Although the 24-year-old prefers the right side of the pitch, he is naturally left-footed and has impressed since joining the London Stadium.
Kudus has scored 17 goals and eight assists for the Hammers since joining from Ajax in a deal reported to be worth around £38m in 2023. Given his pace and threat going forward, he could prove useful in Arsenal's current setup. .
Arteta admitted Arsenal will be 'very alert' to transfer developments this month, but insisted he will continue to look for solutions internally after Ethan Nwaneri inflicted another injury blow on the club.
The Gunners boss said: “That hasn't changed – once again the focus is on our players. Whatever is on the market, we are very alert. But the priority is working with the players we have now and tomorrow night, which will be a big night for us.
“We have very high standards and we really only want to have players here who come from our academy, otherwise we have to sign players to really elevate and influence the team, otherwise bringing in bodies doesn't help us.”
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