As his contract with Arsenal enters its final 12 months, speculation about his future is rife. This report delves into the potential move and what it might mean for Arsenal.
- Tim Akinola, Arsenal’s defensive midfielder, is reportedly on the radar of several English Football League clubs and foreign teams, with his contract at Arsenal set to expire in a year.
- Although Oxford United, Gillingham, and Stockport County are among the English clubs interested, Akinola is said to favour a move abroad.
- Arsenal are considering extending Akinola’s contract by a year to maintain their twelve-month cushion, even as they explore selling the player.
Akinola attracting attention from multiple clubs
Tim Akinola, the Nigerian defensive midfielder for Arsenal, is making waves as he attracts attention from various clubs in the English Football League.
With Akinola’s contract with Arsenal entering its final year, teams such as Oxford United, Gillingham, and Stockport County have expressed their interest.
The interest in Akinola is not limited to England.
Reports indicate that Rapid Bucharest, a Romanian club, has been in discussions with Akinola’s representatives about a potential transfer.
Turkish teams Umraniyespor and Genclerbirligi are also reportedly keen on Akinola.
Arsenal’s position on Akinola’s future
Akinola, an invitee to the 2022 Nigeria’s Olympic National Team, has been part of Arsenal for a while.
However, his recent loan spell with Chesterfield FC, during which he made 31 appearances and proved popular with the fans, has increased his visibility.
Chesterfield’s failure to secure promotion to the Football League is reportedly the reason they are not pursuing a permanent deal for Akinola.
Arsenal reportedly favours selling Akinola, but there is a consideration to extend his contract by an extra year.
This would allow Arsenal to maintain their 12-month cushion if only a loan option is available in the current transfer window.
Akinola’s preference
Despite interest from English clubs, Akinola reportedly prefers a move abroad. He believes that he has the quality to play for a top-flight club in Europe.
Akinola’s decision may also be influenced by the fact that he has technically aged out of u21 football at Arsenal, making his situation ripe for a move.
The coming months will be decisive for Akinola’s career, as he and Arsenal negotiate the best way forward amidst significant interest from other clubs.
