Maybe he'll become the new Saka - but it won't be at Arsenal

Arsenal's young talent, Marcelo Flores, is on the verge of completing a permanent transfer to Mexican club Tigres for a fee of approximately $2.5 million.

Flores flew to Mexico on Thursday to undergo a medical examination and sign a four-year contract with Tigres. The 19-year-old, who hails from Mexico and holds three caps for the national team, has been part of Arsenal since his transfer from Ipswich in 2019. However, he did not make any appearances for the Arsenal senior squad during his time at the club.

Although he didn't feature for the first team, Flores regularly played for Arsenal's youth teams and spent the previous season on loan at Spanish club Real Oviedo. His previous contract was set to expire this year, but Arsenal triggered an automatic two-year extension and secured a transfer fee for any potential move.

Arsenal has faced criticism from certain sections of their fanbase for selling the promising teenager. Many had high hopes that Flores would follow a path similar to Bukayo Saka, becoming a crucial first-team player after progressing through Arsenal's academy, just like Saka.

Flores initially joined Arsenal as a youth prospect in 2019, following two seasons of development with Ipswich Town. His journey to England began when he signed with Ipswich Town in 2017 after a stint with Brampton Fairgrounds in Canada. Born in Ontario, Canada, in 2003, Flores is an attacking midfielder with a bright future, and his departure from the club has left some fans disappointed.

Upon returning to Mexico, Flores greeted the chance to shine in his homeland and prove himself on the big stage.

"I'm happy with this new stage and ready to start the new stage with the best club in Mexico."

The transfer is expected to be finalized by Saturday, and Tigres will be facing Atlas in their next Liga MX game after the international break on 18 September.