Marquinhos Set to Join Nantes on Loan from Arsenal
Marquinhos, the Brazilian winger, is reportedly leaving Arsenal to join Ligue 1 side Nantes on loan. The 20-year-old signed for Arsenal last summer in a £3 million deal from Sao Paulo but has struggled to make an impact at the club. He made just six appearances for the Gunners before being loaned out to Norwich City in the January transfer window.
During pre-season, Marquinhos trained with Arsenal’s squad but was left out of the squad for their victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield. Now, according to French publication Ouest-France, Marquinhos is on the verge of joining Nantes on loan for the upcoming campaign. However, it is reported that Nantes will not have an option to buy the player at the end of the loan spell.
Nantes finished just one point above the relegation places in Ligue 1 last season and will be hoping that Marquinhos can provide a boost to their attacking options. The club’s first match of the new campaign is against Toulouse on Sunday.
In other news, Arsenal has rejected a bid from Monaco for striker Folarin Balogun. The Gunners are seeking a £50 million fee for the 22-year-old, who impressed on loan at Reims last season. Inter are also said to be considering a move for Balogun.
It remains to be seen how these transfer developments will affect Arsenal’s squad for the upcoming season. The club has been active in the transfer market, signing several new players including Ben White, Albert Sambi Lokonga, and Nuno Tavares. Manager Mikel Arteta will be hoping to build a strong squad capable of challenging for major honors.
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In conclusion, Marquinhos’ loan move to Nantes is set to provide him with an opportunity for more playing time and development. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s rejection of Monaco’s bid for Balogun indicates their determination to hold onto the promising young striker. As the new season approaches, fans will be eagerly watching to see how these transfer moves impact the team’s performance.