Arsenal midfielder Ben Cottrell has signed for Slovenian side FC Mura on a permanent deal, GoonerNews.com understands.

The 21-year-old Hale End academy product made his senior debut for the Gunners against Dundalk in the 2020 Europa League group stage.

Under-21’s boss Mehmet Ali said last season that Cottrell needs to be playing senior football following a difficult spell with injuries.

Cottrell was ruled out for a year in January 2022 but contributed three goals and two assists for the under-21’s in the previous campaign.

“Ben needs to go out and play men’s football,” Ali said.

“Having said that he’s had a really tough two seasons – the last two seasons have been very difficult.

“I feel that as a group of staff, we’ve really supported him. But credit to Ben to get his head down, support the younger players, and put in some of the performances that he’s put on.

“Hopefully he’s done enough to showcase him to go and get an opportunity to play men’s football, which is what he needs.”

It’s understood Cottrell has already signed his contract with Mura and will be unveiled in the coming days.