Arsenal agree permanent move for 20-year-old after successful loan spell

Arsenal have reached a full agreement with Grimsby Town for the permanent transfer of defender Maldini Kacurri, according to The Mirror.

The deal will see the Albanian centre-back leave north London after several years within the club’s academy system.

Kacurri is set to join the League Two side for an undisclosed fee, with the move now close to completion.

The deal is also said to include a sell-on clause in Arsenal’s favour, according to journalist Simon Collings.

The defender spent the first half of the season on loan at Morecambe, gaining regular senior experience.

His loan spell with Morecambe officially came to an end on January 2 this year. Grimsby have now moved quickly to secure his services permanently.

Loan spell opened door for next step

Kacurri’s time at Morecambe played a key role in shaping this move. The defender featured regularly during his loan spell and gained valuable match exposure.

He made 18 appearances for Morecambe across all competitions before returning to Arsenal, during which he won two consecutive Player of the Month awards.

Alongside his loan appearances, Kacurri also featured for Arsenal’s Under-21 side. He made four appearances at that level during the current campaign.

Across all competitions this season, the 20-year-old recorded 22 appearances and scored once.

Grimsby believe he can add strength and balance to their squad. The club are pushing for promotion, and they see Kacurri as a useful addition.

Arsenal secure clause as academy spell ends

The move will bring an end to Kacurri’s three-and-a-half-year stay at Arsenal. He joined the Gunners from Fulham in 2022 and became part of the Hale End setup.

During his time at the club, he worked through the academy ranks. His progress earned him opportunities at the youth level and senior training sessions.

Kacurri made his senior Arsenal debut last season in the Carabao Cup. He came on as a substitute during a 5-1 win over Bolton Wanderers.

The defender replaced Riccardo Calafiori late in that match. The report suggests Arsenal will receive a modest fee from the transfer.

The Albanian international will now focus on helping Grimsby reach their goals.

The post Arsenal agree permanent move for 20-year-old after successful loan spell first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.