Arsenal loanee returns, club want sale

Maldini Kacurri is returning to Arsenal after his loan spell with Morecambe expired, with interest from EFL clubs in a January move.

Photo via Morecambe FC on Instagram

Morecambe FC confirmed on Monday that Maldini Kacurri is returning to Arsenal following the end of his loan spell at the National League club.

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“Lots of ups and downs, but I enjoyed and learned a lot during my time at Morecambe,” Kacurri wrote on Instagram. “Thank you to the fans, players and coaching staff for welcoming me, I wish everyone associated with the club the best for the future.”

Kacurri had only signed until January, so Arsenal had always planned to see him return during the winter window, although there had been suggestions from Morecambe to keep him.

The centre-back won Morecambe’s Player of the Month award in October and November, and it appears he has attracted the attention of clubs higher up the English football pyramid.

Photo via Morecambe FC on Instagram

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James McNicholas reports for The Athletic that non-league Morecambe were indeed in favor of extending Kacurri’s stay, but they face rival interest from English Football League clubs.

An added complication is that Kacurri’s contract with Arsenal expires at the end of the season, so the Gunners may now prefer to sell him rather than loan him out.

But McNicholas suggests a loan is also still on the table, so what happens next will depend on what offers are received.

Photo via Morecambe FC on Instagram

Kacurri made 18 appearances for Morecambe, scoring one goal and assisting one in his central defense role. It was the 20-year-old’s second stint in senior football after playing a few games on loan with Bromley last season.

The youngster also made his senior international debut in a friendly for Albania against Gibraltar in September, although he is yet to feature in their squad for a competitive match.