Three Kyles out, one in. So who is Blackwell’s latest import?
Kyle Bartley is 18 years old, born in Manchester he spent his early years with Bolton Wanderers. His departure to Arsenal three years ago caused a great deal of upset at The Reebock. Wanderers were insisting that they were paid almost £1m for the teenager, before Liam Brady brokered a deal despite Big Sam Alladice being against the move. Manchester City were also interested in signing him, but he chose to go North London.
Six foot three, a central defender, he was a pivotal part of Arsenal’s Youth Cup winning team last season. He also broke into the Arsenal reserve team, playing thirteen times and being made captain of the reserves for the current season.
Reports say that Kyle is a good reader of the game and is calm and controlled well beyond his years. He is hard challenging, athletic and quick for a tall defender. At youth level he also proved to be a threat going forward, scoring several key goals.
Bartley made his first team debut against Olympiacos in the Champion’s League, and has been on the bench for league and FA Cup games.
Arsene Wenger is said to be a massive fan of Kyle Bartley, and several informed commentators have touted the youngster as a future England international.
His loan period will take him through to 12th May.
Bartley’s arrival coupled with Toni Kallio and Nyron Nosworthy will certainly add a lot of height to the back four.
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