Eddie Nketiah made his return from injury for Leeds United on the weekend in the 4-0 demolition of Middlesbrough, but the forward’s immediate future remains up in the air.
The 20-year-old, who has scored five times this season, missed four of the Whites’ five Championship games in November with an abdominal problem.
During his absence, the Gunners have been tipped to recall the striker in the new year.
However, reliable Athletic reporter Phil Hay revealed last week that the forward isn’t actively pursuing an Emirates return over the coming months.
One club who were interested in Nketiah’s services over the summer was Leeds’ Championship rivals Bristol City.
And now, CEO Mark Ashton has confirmed that the club would be keen on bringing the striker to Ashton Gate if he became available.
Talking to the media, cited by the Yorkshire Evening Post, Robins said:
He’s a very talented player. Should he become available he would be someone we would definitely consider if the fit was right and we were able to do it. It would be remiss of us to have someone like him as the only option.
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Nketiah looks settled at Elland Road, and even though he isn’t getting the starts under Marcelo Bielsa, he still looks set to play a key role in Leeds’ push for promotion should he remain in Yorkshire.
The Gunners may well have the opportunity to recall the forward in the new year, but we feel as though they should resist the chance to and let him continue his development under the guidance of Bielsa.
A whole season in the Championship with Bielsa will do Nketiah the world of good, which could then lead to a first-team role at the Emirates next season.
