Grimsby Town are on the verge of securing the permanent signing of Arsenal defender Maldini Kacurri, with the 20-year-old Albanian international set to undergo a medical before finalising an 18-month contract with the League Two club.
The Mariners have moved quickly to bolster their defensive options, beating off interest from other EFL sides to secure the young centre-back’s signature.
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 5 January that Arsenal were prepared to let Kacurri leave permanently following a successful loan spell.
The Gunners have now given him permission to travel to Grimsby for talks and a medical to finalise the deal.
Kacurri, who signed his first professional contract with Arsenal in 2024, was sent on loan to gain senior experience and further his development.
This move marks the next step in his career, providing an opportunity for regular first-team football in the EFL.
During his time at Morecambe, Kacurri made 18 appearances and impressed enough to win Player of the Month awards in both October and November. While Morecambe were keen to retain him, Arsenal opted to explore other options, paving the way for a permanent transfer.
His performances on loan also drew attention from clubs higher up the football pyramid, either for potential loans or permanent deals, highlighting his growing reputation as a promising young defender.
Despite his potential, Kacurri is currently well down the first-team pecking order under Mikel Arteta.
However, he has been involved in senior matchday squads, featuring in the 1-0 Premier League win against Tottenham in September 2024 and coming off the bench in the Carabao Cup win over Bolton later that month, replacing Riccardo Calafiori.
Arsenal’s decision to approve his permanent exit reflects their broader approach to player development, ensuring that young talents like Kacurri have the chance to play regular senior football rather than remaining on the fringes.
Grimsby Town have acted swiftly to secure Kacurri, beating off competition from other EFL clubs.
The Mariners view him as a key addition to strengthen their defensive options, with the move giving him the platform to continue his progression in senior football.
This permanent transfer represents a significant opportunity for Kacurri to establish himself as a key figure in the EFL.
His previous loan spell has demonstrated his adaptability and quality, and he will now aim to carry that form into Grimsby’s squad for the remainder of the season.
Once the medical is completed, Kacurri will officially join Grimsby Town, where he will look to make an immediate impact and help improve the club’s defensive stability.
For the defender, it marks another step in his journey as a professional footballer, while for Grimsby, it’s a statement of intent in bolstering their squad mid-season.
