Arsenal star 'almost certain to leave' could now stay at the Emirates

There is still a possibility that Eddie Nketiah could stay at Arsenal beyond this season, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

For long periods this term, it has seemed clear-cut that the striker would move on from the Emirates Stadium in the summer, but that may no longer be the case after his recent upturn in form.

On the whole, it has been a frustrating campaign for the 22-year-old.

Prior to Christmas, Nketiah only made three top-flight appearances, although he did score five goals in the Carabao Cup, including a hat-trick against Sunderland.

Still, his lack of game time meant that he turned down a contract offer from Arsenal in December, and with his current deal set to expire in June, it looked like his time in north London was almost up.

However, he has gradually received more minutes in the second half of the season, and has started Arsenal’s last three matches.

He has taken his opportunity as well, scoring twice in the side’s recent 4-2 victory against Chelsea, while he also did a solid job of leading the line in Arsenal’s latest outing – a 3-1 win at home to Manchester United – which put Mikel Arteta’s team back in pole position for a top-four finish.

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O’Rourke has admitted that it did seem Nketiah’s days at Arsenal were numbered, particularly after he rejected a contract extension.

O’Rourke has hinted that the forward could have a change of heart and stay at the Premier League club, though, given how well he is currently playing.

He told GIVEMESPORT: “Nketiah has come into the team in recent weeks when it looked almost certain that he would leave on a free transfer as well. So, let’s see if anything changes with his situation,