Arsenal signing of Kelechi Nwakali close to completion as visa application progresses

Kelechi Nwakali remains on track to join Arsenal as he awaits a visa in order to complete his move to the Premier League. The Nigerian youngster is set to move to north London along with compatriot Samuel Chukwueze, but the deal has been held up.

Fifa's recent clampdown on the transfer of players under 18 had drawn questions over whether the deal would be completed, amid bans for Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid for similar offences. The Gunners are currently tip-toeing around the regulations but Nwakali requires international clearance in order for them to sidestep any sanctions from the world governing body.

Nwakali burst on the scene at the Under-17 World Cup last summer for a victorious Nigeria side, as he finished the tournament rated the most valuable player. Those performances alerted Arsenal to his talent and despite having had talks with Chelsea the player is honing in on a switch to The Emirates Stadium.

"I don't think there's anything to fear about the deal not going on as planned," Allwell Nwakali, older brother of Kelechi, told Complete Sports. "Given the type of visa we applied for, we hope it will be available within the shortest possible time.

"Don't forget, there are always ways such transactions that are done, so I assure you we'll get there. There are no threats whatsoever on Kelechi's Arsenal move, this I assure you. We've no worries at all as everything is moving according to plans. Arsenal are known to have a good programme for young players. They develop young stars and enhance their careers."

The addition of Nwakali would represent the second signing made by Arsene Wenger in the January transfer window, having already acquired Mohamed Elneny from FC Basel.