The Arsenal loan army for 2023/24 now has its first member.
Youngster Catalin Cirjan will spend the season with Rapid Bucharest and as confirmed by the Romanian outfit in their official press release, they have the option to buy the midfielder permanently at the end of the campaign thus providing the Gunners with a potential windfall opportunity.
The 20-year-old, who is yet to make a first-team breakthrough at Arsenal having joined on a free transfer in the summer of 2019, did make the bench four times in the Europa League group phase in the season just gone as he made 22 appearances across all competitions for the Under-21s.
Set to be coached by former Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu, Cirjan is relishing a return to his homeland and the opportunity to get some senior football under his belt: "It was a long-awaited transfer for me. If it was up to me I would have signed from the first moment, but I'm glad I'm here now," he told the club's official website.
"I received several offers, but I discussed with my family, with my agent, with Mr. Sucu, with Mr. Mutu and the staff. After talking with them I realized that coming to Rapid is the best choice. I'm feeling very well. Last season was a very good one. I'm 100 percent ready and I'm looking forward to showing what I can do on the field.
"I can't wait to start working with Mr. Mutu. Those from Arsenal when they heard that he was the coach of Rapid were amazed, they were very happy. He is a legend and I have something to learn from him. I'm thinking of the title, for sure. I came here with very big goals. I want to help the team with everything I can, I will give everything on the field and, at the end of the season, I hope to bring the title."
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Whilst Cirjan is the first member of Arsenal's 2023/24 loan army - which could yet include the likes of Albert Sambi Lokonga and Marquinhos - he's the second academy player to depart this week following Nikolaj Moller's permanent transfer to Swiss side St Gallen.
Injuries have slowed down Cirjan's development as he was sidelined for the entire 2021/22 season, but has since made a successful return to action. Described as a 'technically sound with an eye for a pass, who likes to get forward from midfield, and can also play out wide', it will he interesting to see how he gets on at Rapid Bucharest.
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