Hertha Berlin 'hoping to secure permanent deal for Guendouzi as he impresses'

Hertha Berlin are reportedly looking to make Matteo Guendouzi's loan move permanent with the Arsenal outcast continuing to impress for the German outfit.

The French midfielder was loaned out for the 2020-21 campaign following a breadk down in his relationship with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

He had been a mainstay in his first season under Unai Emery, playing 48 times in all competitions, but fell out of favour during the opening months of Arteta's tenure.

The Gunners boss excluded the 21-year-old from first-team training after a series of indiscretions, including an ugly spat with fellow countryman Neal Maupay against Brighton at the back end of last season.

Guendouzi grabbed the striker's throat after the match and reportedly mocked Brighton players' wages in comparison to his own.

The 21-year-old has since made a bright start to life in Germany, securing a regular starting birth and contributing a goal and an assist in seven appearances.

And now Der Tagesspiegel are reporting that the Bundesliga side are actively exploring the option of keeping him.

Hertha boss Bruno Labbadia said recently: 'Guendouuzi is very, very valuable to us. We are happy that we were able to sign him.

'He's a very, very good footballer, who has a good sense of space and is technically very strong.

'Matteo is someone who has no reservations. Even though he's young, he gives instructions.'