It is understood that Arsenal have accepted offers from Everton and Southampton to loan Gnabry for the 2014/2015 season. According to Caughtoffside, the two clubs are leading the chase for the German winger on a season long loan.
Highly regarded at Arsenal, the 18-year-old made eye-catching performances last season with a total of fourteen appearances scoring once in the process- against Swansea City. However, the youngster is going to be stifled out of first team football as competition for places grows at Arsenal. Theo Walcott, Lukas Podolski, Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil, and Aaron Ramsey are all higher in the perking order.
The choice of either Everton or Southampton will do a lot for Gnabry in terms of his continuing education. Roberto Martinez’s side was applauded with their attacking style of football last season and also the willingness to give young players a chance to play first team football. Ross Barkley, Romelu Lukaku (on loan from Chelsea) and Gerard Deulofeu (on-loan from Spanish side Barcelona), both flourished under Martinez and it is expected that should Gnabry choose Everton, he will gain valuable lessons as well.
Mauricio Pochettino may have left Southampton for Tottenham but the truth is that the Saints are another club much like Everton with their attacking and technical style of football similar to what Gnabry is used to at Arsenal. Players like Adam Lallana and Luke Shaw blossomed at St. Mary’s and should Gnabry choose the Saints, it will be a welcomed development as well.
Gnabry is comfortable playing anywhere along the front line and his pace which is such a valuable asset will be put to good use by both Everton and Southampton.
