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Former Chelsea star Joe Cole has suggested that Arsenal could make a surprise move for Nottingham Forest winger Callum Hudson-Odoi in the summer transfer window.

Mikel Arteta is expected to reinforce his squad following another likely shortfall in the Premier League title race. A new striker is a top priority, but Arteta could also target another winger to address Arsenal’s depth issues in wide positions during the 2024-25 campaign.

The Gunners have been linked with Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams, who is expected to leave this summer. With Barcelona struggling financially, Arsenal could emerge as a potential destination for the 22-year-old.

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Hudson-Odoi, once one of Chelsea’s most highly-rated academy graduates, made over 100 appearances for the Blues but struggled for regular game time in his final seasons at Stamford Bridge. A loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen helped him regain form, and since joining Nottingham Forest, the 24-year-old has thrived, playing a key role in their push for a top-four finish.

With Forest currently third in the league and closing in on Champions League qualification, Cole believes other top clubs will be taking notice of Hudson-Odoi’s resurgence. However, he has advised the winger to remain at Forest rather than consider a move elsewhere.

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“I’ve been so happy for him,” Cole said on The Dressing Room podcast. “He had a bad injury, and it took him a while to get back to where he is now.

“He feels like he can drive past players again. You know what my advice to him would be? There might be some big clubs sniffing around, like Arsenal or Manchester City, but he’s playing football and enjoying himself.

“There’s something special happening at Forest, and when you’re playing and you’re happy, that’s massive.”

Nottingham Forest strengthened their top-four hopes with a 4-2 victory over Ipswich Town on Saturday. Nuno Espírito Santo’s side will face Brighton after the international break in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

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