Arsenal forward Eddie Nketiah is now expected to leave the Emirates when his contract expires next June, according to reports in the English media.

West Ham and Bayer Leverkusen were linked with the 21-year-old in the summer but Crystal Palace were the only team who made a formal approach for the striker.

However, the Eagles baulked at paying £12m for Nketiah and they decided to snap up Odsonne Edouard from Celtic instead. That means the Gunners star could now leave on a free transfer next summer.

It must be pointed out, though, that English clubs would have to pay compensation if they do try and sign the former England Under 21 international, as he is under the age of 23.

Even so, while West Ham would have to come up with a fee for Nketiah, it would be a lot lower than what Arsenal have been demanding.

With Irons boss David Moyes having decided against signing a backup for Michail Antonio, the Nketiah situation could be something that the club revisit in a future transfer window.