Arsenal are closing in on the signing of an exciting two-footed defender, according to reports emerging in Italy over the weekend.
The Gunners have seen big improvements in recent years at full back, given the additions of Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu. But in both cases, Arsenal have suffered with a lack of quality depth when an injury occurs to them.
So, Arsenal appear to have turned their attention to another Scot, Aaron Hickey. The 19-year-old Scottish defender has been a hit in Serie A in the last couple of seasons, attracting interest across Europe.
The link was initially broken by Scots Abroad Pod back at the start of May. The reported that Arsenal were pushing to seal a €20million deal for Hickey.
Now, according to CalcioNapoli24, Arsenal and Bologna found an agreement over the weekend between 20-25million euros.
Hickey is a very two-footed player, naturally left-footed but almost just as comfortable with his right. This means Hickey could also provide cover for the right side of defence, as well as being able to play further up the pitch.
Arsenal have a good relationship with Bologna after striking a deadline day deal for Tomiyasu last summer. It seems the club have wasted no time in reigniting that relationship by finding an agreement for Hickey.
Where would this signing leave Cedric Soares and Nuno Tavares? Cedric could perhaps be allowed to leave, whilst a loan deal may be beneficial for Nuno, who would clearly benefit from playing regular first team football somewhere.
Hickey is valued at £13.5million on transfermarkt, but likely to cost closer to £20million given his age and performances to date.