Arsenal and Marseille are closing in on a deal for midfielder Matteo Guendouzi, according to Le10Sport.

The 22-year-old fell out of favour with Mikel Arteta owing to his off-field issues and was sent on loan to Hertha Berlin.

Marseille have been tracking Guendouzi for several weeks and are keen on signing the Frenchman this summer.

The move has accelerated in the last few days, with club owner Frank McCourt close to sanctioning a transfer fee in the region of €12-15 million.

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Guendouzi’s career has gone downhill after that stellar first season, where he wowed everyone with his tenacity and technical finesse.

Many people thought that the youngster would become a mainstay in the Gunners midfield for years to come, but that has not been the case.

It is clear that the Frenchman is not in Arteta’s plans, and letting him go would be the right decision.

It could be argued that given his talent and potential, the fee being talked about should be much higher.

However, the club will generate some cash by selling a player who would not feature under Arteta. The funds raised can help the Gunners pursue some of their other targets.

It is good to see Arsenal acting early and while losing Guendouzi is a blow, it is the right thing to do.

Also Read: Chelsea to confirm a new deal for Thiago Silva, eyeing another centre-back.