Graeme Souness has lavished praise upon Eddie Nketiah after his stirring performance against West Ham, questioning just how Arsenal have allowed his contract to run down.
The striker started for the fourth successive match on Sunday, playing a pivotal role as Mikel Arteta’s resurgent side swiftly regained fourth place in the Premier League from rivals Tottenham with a hard-fought 2-1 win at the London Stadium.
Along with the likes of Mohamed Elneny and Rob Holding, Nketiah is one of a number of unlikely protagonists now contributing hugely to Arsenal’s push for Champions League qualification despite a previous lack of regular playing opportunities.
The 22-year-old’s Arsenal future remains subject to significant doubt, however, with his contract due to expire in June and no agreement yet reached over an extension despite offers having been tabled over recent months.
The loss of Nketiah would likely leave Mikel Arteta needing to sign at least two new forwards this summer, with Alexandre Lacazette also seeing his deal expire and admitting he is open to returning to Lyon after holding talks with plenty of clubs.
And Souness says he is “amazed” by the Arsenal academy graduate’s contract situation, believing he won’t be short of suitors on a potential free transfer after another impressive outing at West Ham.
“I thought Nketiah was the best player on the pitch against West Ham,” Souness said on Sky Sports. “He was always threatening.
“His contract is about to run out? I’m amazed by that. He will not be short of teams wanting him. He looked a threat throughout and he’s up for the fight.
“I really like him and against West Ham, I thought he was fabulous. He’s put himself in the shop window. If that is his general standard, he will not be short of teams wanting to take him.”
