Arsenal legend Alan Smith has urged the Gunners to keep Eddie Nketiah for the second half of the season.
Nketiah recently returned to the Emirates after being recalled from his loan spell at Leeds United due to a lack of game time.
Having gone after Nketiah in the summer, Bristol City are keen to take him on loan in January and, whilst there is competition for his signature, the Robins' longstanding interest means they lead the race for his signature.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has hinted Nketiah will be heading out on loan, but Sky Sports pundit Smith says they should look at keeping the striker at the Emirates in order to provide back-up for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette.
“I am sure he learnt a lot under [Marcelo] Bielsa and he deserves a crack back at the Emirates,” Smith said of Nketiah.
“When he went to Leeds, I was a little disappointed because it looked like he could have been useful in the squad but he has done well off the bench and got himself some goals.
“He will have come to terms with the physical aspect of the division and Arsenal will be getting back a more rounded, better player.
“It would be a shame to see Nketiah sent out on loan again - if Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang or Alexandre Lacazette get injured then you are a little short.”
Get lots more news, opinion and transfer updates on our Bristol City FC page and add a bookmark to find it quickly next time.
