Arsenal youngster is “close” to permanent Mexico move

Arsenal pride themselves for having a great youth setup. The most famous Hale End graduates in recent seasons are Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson – all three of those getting regular game time under Mikel Arteta.

However, among all the success stories, there are even more youth players waiting for their big call-up to the first-team. For some of them, the wait can become too long and detrimental to their development, so they push for moves elsewhere.

Unfortunately for Arsenal, they could be at risk of losing another one of their young prodigies, after recently selling Folarin Balogun. Admittedly, though, this one won’t pick up nearly as big a fee.

Arsenal youngster Marcelo Flores close to joining Tigres

According to journalist Charles Watts, Arsenal youngster Marcelo Flores is “close” to his permanent move to Liga MX side Tigres.

The 19-year-old Mexico international, who spent last season at Real Oviedo, is looking for a move away to boost his career. After all, it doesn’t look likely he’ll break into the Arsenal first-team anytime soon.

Flores is a versatile midfielder who can play as either an attacking midfielder or winger. Despite his versatility, his promotion to the senior squad hasn’t resulted in a competitive debut. Although he’s some fine progress and looking mature for a 19-year-old player, his best bet of first-team football is to move back to his home country Mexico to play in its fantastic Liga MX.

Liga MX has produced some incredible talents in years gone by and Flores hopes to benefit from the same fate as that catalogue. Who knows? Perhaps in a few years time, Mikel Arteta might see his progress and regret not giving him a chance sooner. Only time will tell.

Are you aware of Marcelo Flores?