Arsenal chiefs fear worst, as fan meltdown brewing over top youth star
Arsenal chiefs reportedly fear that further fan anger will emerge if they fail to tie youth star Kido Taylor-Hart down to a new contract.
The Gunners have become the club most linked with change at the top since the European Super League fiasco. Fans have held protests calling for the Kroenke family to relinquish their ownership, much like the anti-Glazer protests at Old Trafford. Unlike Manchester United, though, Arsenal have genuine takeover interest from Daniel Ek.
While the Spotify founder is willing to push through his bid for Arsenal, a takeover remains in the distance.
Instead, The Sun on Sunday reports that there are more pressing issues in the pipeline over key players.
Indeed, Arsenal supporters are closely watching the future of hot academy prospect Taylor-Hart. The 18-year-old has made waves this season, becoming a regular feature in the Under-23 ranks.
His scholarship runs out at the end of the season and, as such, the Gunners have offered him professional terms from next term.
However, he has yet to commit to the north Londoners. What’s more, The Sun on Sunday reports that clubs in the Premier League, the Bundesliga, the Netherlands and Belgium are after his signature.
Therefore, his departure is entirely a viable prospect. If he does leave, though, Arsenal chiefs fear that a fan backlash will emerge, creating yet more fury at the club.
Arsenal chiefs need to ‘make it clear’ to the winger that his best option is to stay with the Gunners.
Should he continue his development, he would likely become another youth prospect to make it into the first team.
Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka have proved shining lights for Arsenal this season. As such, Taylor-Hart missing out on his progression up the ranks ‘would likely cause uproar’, the report adds.
Taylor-Hart is Arsenal gem
Arsenal chiefs reportedly regard Taylor-Hart as the ‘next big star’. They also feel that he could follow in the footsteps of Smith Rowe and Saka.
Unlike fellow talent Folarin Balogun, though, he has yet to commit his future to the club.
Taylor-Hart has flourished in the Under-23 team this term, scoring four goals in 13 games.
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Last week, the teenager netted a last-minute equaliser and notched an assist to help Arsenal avoid relegation in a 2-2 draw with West Ham.
Arsenal’s first team, though, is struggling after Thursday’s Europa League exit to Villarreal.
READ MORE: Mikel Arteta sack decision made by Stan Kroenke after EL exit
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