Turks make pincer movement as two Arsenal defenders targeted
Reports in the Turkish media claim Fenerbahce are keen to sign Arsenal defensive pair Cedric Soares and Sead Kolasinac in the summer transfer window.
The duo look surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium. Cedric has struggled to nail down a regular first-team berth since arriving in north London. Having spent five years with Southampton, the Portugal international penned a loan deal with the Gunners in January 2020.
That became permanent last summer as he inked a long-term deal in the capital. But things did not go to plan last term and Mikel Arteta used him sparingly.
The former Sporting ace made just eight Premier League starts among 10 appearances. He switched from his usual right-back spot to cover for the injured Kieran Tierney at times.
But with Nuno Tavares now on board, the left-back position seems covered. And if Hector Bellerin remains, his route to the opposite side of defence may also be blocked.
Therefore an exit could be the best thing for all concerned. Fotomac are reporting that Fener’s manager Vitor Pereira is hoping to land the versatile stopper this summer.
He has struggled with injuries at times but proved at Southampton that he is a decent player when fit. Arteta may decide to keep him as the Spaniard will want plenty of cover in all positions.
Kolasinac to join Cedric in Emirates exit
Kolasinac joined Arsenal in June 2017 after running his contract down at Schalke. The Bosnia and Herzegovina international had spent five years with the Bundesliga outfit.
He saw plenty of action during his first three seasons with the Gunners, making 104 appearances in all competitions. But after falling out of favour during the first half of 2020-21, he was loaned to Schalke for the second half of that season.
Die Konigsblauen’s relegation to Bundesliga 2 ended any thoughts of a permanent switch to Gelsenkirchen. Now back in London, the 28-year-old is attempting to terminate his contract with the club.
Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur is suggesting that both player and club are open to the idea. That would open to door to a free transfer to Fenerbahce and reduce Arteta’s wage bill.
It is said that the Germany-born full-back earns in the region of £100,000-per-week with Arsenal. In total, he has enjoyed 113 outings in all competitions for the club but may not add to that tally.
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