Arsenal star Eddie Nketiah lined up for shock transfer to Premier League rivals after Marseille move falls through

ARSENAL star Eddie Nketiah is being lined up with a move to Bournemouth, according to reports.

The striker has been tipped to leave the Emirates this summer after struggling for game time last season.

Bournemouth want to sign Eddie NketiahGetty

He signed a five-year contract two years ago worth £100,000-a-week but Mikel Arteta is now happy to let him leave.

Nketiah, 25, was subject to a bid from Marseille but the move collapsed as they were unwilling to match Arsenal’ £30million asking price.

However Nketiah could still leave North London with Bournemouth interested in striking a deal, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Cherries are searching for a replacement for Dominic Solanke following his £65million switch to Tottenham.

Romano claims Bournemouth are also interested in signing Porto star Evanilson but saw a bid rejected.

So they have opened up talks to sign Nketiah, who has scored 38 goals in 168 games for the Gunners.

If Arsenal do sell Nketiah it could pave the way for reinforcements.

Mikel Merino remains a top target and could be about to join after being left out of Real Sociedad’s squad against Union Berlin last week.

Arsenal have a tricky start to the season

In terms of attackers Arsenal have been linked with a move for £70m-rated Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres.

But the Gunners have missed out on long-term target Pedro Neto who has joined Chelsea.

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