Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Ryo Miyaichi Close to Joining Wigan Athletic on Loan

The Daily Mirror reports that Wigan Athletic are keen to agree to a season-long loan deal for Arsenal starlet Ryo Miyaichi. The report indicates that Miyaichi is seen as an ideal replacement for Latics star Victor Moses, who is expected to leave the club during the current transfer window.

Miyaichi initially impressed during a short loan spell with the ultimately-relegated Bolton Wanderers last season. It seems that Arsene Wenger is anxious to ensure him even more game time this campaign.

The Gunners boss wants Miyaichi to continue his education in the Premier League, and that's a smart move.

A natural winger, Miyaichi's acceleration and close control are excellent, but he still needs to get used to the robust nature and frantic pace of the EPL. He must learn to make quicker decisions once he has beaten a marker and add a genuine goal threat to his game.

Wigan is the ideal place for Miyaichi to learn those valuable lessons and gain vital experience.

Latics manager Roberto Martinez is a bright and daring coach who emphasizes a brand of attacking flair, similar to the style favoured by Wenger. And what's most important is that Martinez can be trusted to give Miyaichi game time and feature him in Wigan's attacking play.

The fleet-footed 19-year-old made only 12 league appearances for Bolton last term, despite a positive start. He finished with a single goal and a pair of assists. His best performances came in a 2-1 home win over Queens Park Rangers in March and a 3-0 away defeat to Chelsea in late February.

If he is used to replace Moses, Miyaichi will be playing regularly. That will give Gunners fans plenty of opportunities to see his speed and technique as he attempts to become a legitimate first-team talent.