EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal youngster labelled 'next Saka' in talks with Sunderland

Steve Kay

• Updated: 28 Jan 2024 19:23 GMT
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Arsenal’s Charles Sagoe Jr is in talks with Sunderland over a proposed loan move ahead of the closure of the January transfer window next week, FootballTransfers has been told.

The Gunners’ promising winger has caught the attention of several clubs, but we understand that it’s the Black Cats who are pressing ahead for this signature.

Sagoe Jr, who is the only academy player to have graced the field for the Arsenal first-team this season, showcased his ability against Brentford in the League Cup back in September, in what was a 1-0 win for the North London club over the Bees.

Sunderland have been linked with a move for Manchester United winger Amad Diallo, who enjoyed a great spell for them last season in the Championship, but now sources inform us that they have set their sights on the Gunners' prodigy instead.

In addition to Sagoe's potential loan departure, we are told that Omar Rekik may be on the move too. The defender recently returned from a loan spell at Wigan and is currently training with the Arsenal first-team. We understand that the centre-back could be headed for another temporary stint away this window to gain valuable playing experience.

Who is Arsenal starlet Charles Sagoe Jr?

Born in 2004 in Kingston-Upon-Thames, Sagoe Jr joined Arsenal from Fulham. In the Under-21s, the teenager scored six goals in 26 appearances.

In March last year, he was named in Arsenal's Europa League clash against Sporting CP on the bench, though he didn't make it onto the pitch that day.

The 19-year-old has drawn comparisons to Arsenal's star Bukayo Saka, who is also a right-winger and a product of the Hale End academy.