Arsenal legend Nwankwo Kanu is believed to be the main reason as to why former Manchester City and Bayern Munich target Kelechi Nwakali chose to join the north London side.
The 17-year-old Nigerian international is believed to have agreed a five-year deal with the Gunners and is set to undergo a medical ahead of completing a summer move from the Diamond Academy.
An attacking midfielder, Nwakali was mightily impressive as he lead Nigeria to World Cup glory with the under-17’s, captaining his side along the way and picking up the award for Player of the Tournament.
A source close to Nwakali, as reported by allnigeriasoccer, claimed that the Nigerian harboured ambitions to join the Emirates side because of Kanu’s influence.
YouTube: Kelechi Nwakali 2015-16 • Nigeria | Welcome to Arsenal FC 2016 | Goals, Skills, Assists | HD
Kanu Nwankwo has played for Arsenal, so Arsene Wenger contacted him to ask about Nwakali. Through him, Arsenal were able to sign the player.
Nwakali has an agent, Stellar Group, but Kanu was brought in because he is close to us, so we connected him with the British agent.
Arsenal followed him during the World Cup. Manchester City wanted him even before the tournament but told him to train with the Academy team before being offered a contract, so the deal collapsed.
Nwakali is set to join the north London side in the summer and is expected to join the academy as he bids to build a reputation in English football
