Arsenal academy player Josh Nichols has completed a free transfer to Croatian second-tier club NK Kustosija, the club confirmed on Saturday.
The 19-year-old departs the Emirates Stadium after failing to establish himself in the first team setup, making a single senior appearance in 2024 but none during the recently concluded 2025/26 season. Nichols’ move to Zagreb represents a significant shift in his career trajectory.
Kustosija, recently promoted to the second tier of Croatian football, have garnered a reputation for developing young talent, aided by close ties to influential agent Andy Bara. This focus on player development is believed to be a key factor in attracting Nichols, despite the unexpected nature of the transfer. The club offers a pathway to regular football that was unavailable to him at Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are monitoring the situation of Barcelona forward Ferran Torres, according to TEAMtalk. The Spanish international’s future at the Camp Nou is uncertain following Barcelona’s recent acquisition of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for a reported €80 million, as well as pursuits of Julian Alvarez and Marcus Rashford. Torres was reportedly offered to Atletico Madrid as part of a deal for Alvarez, causing frustration for the player, and has attracted interest from both Arsenal and Chelsea.
Further complicating Arsenal’s forward line, French giants Paris Saint-Germain have entered the race for Bournemouth’s 19-year-old striker Eli Kroupi, L’Equipe reports. Kroupi enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Premier League, scoring 13 goals in just 1,700 minutes, also drawing interest from Manchester United. Bournemouth are currently reluctant to sell the young attacker.
Ethan Nwaneri, another Arsenal youngster, is also considering his options, with Como reportedly interested. Nwaneri recently returned from a challenging six-month loan spell at Marseille, where he faced criticism for his performances and attitude. Despite this, Arsenal still hold Nwaneri in high regard, but the player is concerned about his future playing time, particularly with potential squad strengthening planned by manager Mikel Arteta.
