Arsenal considering sending youngster on loan after mixed campaign

Arsenal are considering letting Nuno Tavares leave on loan ahead of the upcoming season, according to a report in the Athletic.

The left-back was signed from Benfica only 12 months ago in a deal worth £7m, but was hit and miss in Arsenal’s hunt for a top 4 spot, with his erratic and unpredictable nature seeing him hooked twice before the second half, while Granit Xhaka and Cedric were also preferred at left-back at times.

This has led to speculation that the Gunners may once again be in the market for a full-back, with Bologna defender Aaron Hickey one of those mentioned most prominently.

And, as per the Athletic, Tavares could be sent out on loan, though the club may wait until January to do so in order to give him the chance to experience Europa League football.

‘The club have discussed the possibility of sending Nuno Tavares out on loan to aid his development’.

‘That could create a vacancy but a move for a replacement could be delayed until January: the Europa League group stage could also provide a great platform for the young defender to improve’, they report.

“If you ask what I want, it’s 22 outfield players & three GKs.”

So how might Arteta get to his magic number?

🔺Hein set to be GK3
🔺#AFC consider Tavares loan
🔺Pepe going may prompt move for wide fwd
🔺Patino possible wildcard inclusion@TheAthleticUK https://t.co/rTPxBDwBxx

— gunnerblog (@gunnerblog) June 3, 2022

Where else will Arsenal see movement?

In addition to a potential new left-back, there is almost certain to be movement in midfield, with Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans a preferred target.

Beyond that, they are also in the market for a striker, with Alexandre Lacazette joining Lyon on a free transfer and a wide forward is also likely to be added should Nicolas Pepe depart.

Despite the pleas of some fans for cover at right-back, the Athletic suggest that Arsenal ‘value the work of Cedric’ and as a result, ‘upgrading in this position is not a priority’.

But, it could yet prove to be a very busy summer window should Arsenal want to keep up with the other members of the ‘big six’ next season.