Arsenal reportedly reluctant to sign Joel Ngoya because of Lille relationship

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Arsenal are reportedly interested in talented Lille midfielder Joel Ngoya, but their close relationship with the French side could prove a problem in any attempt to sign him. 

The 18-year-old midfielder has been a regular in Lille’s youth-team but, as reported by France Football, an error in the Lille management has seen Ngoya not offered a new professional deal and he will become a free agent at the end of the month. 

That has attracted the attention of several teams, including Everton and Manchester United, whilst German side Hoffenheim have reportedly offered the player a five-year deal with a €300,000 (£270k) signing on fee. 

Arsenal are also said to be keen, but an interesting reason has been given regarding the North London side’s potential reticence in pursuing a deal. 

It is claimed the player’s agents are concerned that Arsenal may not make a move for the teen as they are afraid of ruining their good relationship with the French side. The Gunners bought Nicolas Pepe last summer and this summer have been linked with both Gabriel Magalhaes and Victor Osimhen. 

Arsenal seem to be afraid that signing Ngoya could see Lille take exception to the club when they come knocking for future transfers. 

RMC Sport, as relayed by Maxifoot, recently suggested that Arsenal, or any other suitor, would need to pay €80 million (£72m) to sign the Nigerian forward this summer and the Gunners would not want to put any potential move in the firing line by swooping for an unproven teenager. 

Arsenal fans would likely agree with that assessment.