Leeds working to convince Arsenal on Eddie Nketiah stay

By Lee Connor

Leeds are hoping to convince Arsenal not to recall striker Eddie Nketiah to the Emirates in January.

Eddie Nketiah has been out of the picture somewhat for Leeds. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

The Whites suffered a blow just this week when Spurs opted to call back winger, Jack Clarke. The teenager was struggling for any game time having played just a handful of Championship minutes, with Spurs manager Jose Mourinho now choosing to take a look at the youngster.

Leeds are now in a similar boat when it comes to Nketiah. The striker has been involved under Marcelo Bielsa at times but has struggled to dislodge Patrick Bamford upfront.

However, unlike Clarke, Leeds seem unwilling to allow Nketiah to slip through the net so easily.

The Mirror reports that Leeds are desperate to keep Nketiah and are working hard to convince Arsenal to allow him to stay in West Yorkshire.

“We are endeavouring to convince Eddie and the technical team at Arsenal that the coaching environment at Elland Road is still the best choice for his long-term development,” Leeds transfer chief Angus Kinnear admitted.

Strength in depth

Leeds are flying high in the Championship and look firmly on course for promotion. However, it’s now where they really need a full squad and options to choose one.

Leeds are trying to convince Arsenal to allow Nketiah to stay put. (Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images)

Losing Clarke is manageable but the loss of Nketiah could pose a problem for the club. Patrick Bamford is in fine form but if he is injured or suspended, options then become limited.

Nketiah’s loss would surely mean the club having to delve into the market for a new striker in January.

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This would be a shame for Nketiah and Leeds but you can’t deny he hasn’t played as much as he’d have liked.

He’s done well when selected and scored some crucial goals. But Marcelo Bielsa does like Patrick Bamford and he does work hard for the team.

If Nketiah does leave, rest assured there’ll be a host of teams waiting to snap him up.