Danny Welbeck set for Arsenal exit

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

It is somewhat likely that Danny Welbeck will never kick another ball for Arsenal.

The former Manchester United forward suffered a serious ankle injury in last month's goalless Europa League draw with Sporting Lisbon that could well rule him out for the rest of the season, even though Unai Emery is hopeful he can return to action before the closure of the campaign.

The 42-times capped England international will then be out of contract in the summer, and he isn't going to be offered a new one.

That will lead to the 28-year-old leaving the Emirates Stadium for pastures new after five years at the club, during which he's scored 32 goals in 126 games.

After the injury, Emery offered an update on Welbeck's condition.

"His injury is a big injury. He had an operation on Friday," he said.

"We spoke with him yesterday and today. We support him with our personal relationship between the player and the staff.

"I think he is not going to be with us for a long time."

And according to The Times, Arsenal already have a replacement for Welbeck lined up.

Reiss Nelson has been in fine form for Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga this season, with the 18-year-old scoring six goals in 14 appearances.

The teenager is seen as a big talent by the Gunners, and Emery is ready to promote him to the first-team when he returns for the 2019/20 season.

Nelson has already made 16 first-team appearances for the Gunners, all of which came in the 2017/18 season under Arsene Wenger.

But the club feel as though he will be even stronger after his loan spell, and are ready to put their trust in him once Welbeck's departure frees up some space in the squad.