are considering a summer move for Bologna left-back Aaron Hickey who is valued at £20 million.
Hickey, 19, joined the Serie A side from Hearts in 2020 and has been a revelation, scoring five goals in 33 appearances this season.
The Gunners are thought to be looking to sign a new left-back in the summer with struggling to cover for first-choice Kieran Tierney who has been suffering with injuries.
According to Italian newspaper, , Arsenal’s technical director Edu is keen on signing Hickey as Tavares’ replacement.
The north London side were thought to be interested in Hickey two years ago before he headed to Italy for £1.5 million.
Manager Mikel Arteta believes Hickey can follow in Tierney’s footsteps and become a big hit at Arsenal.
However, they will face competition for his signature with Napoli, AC Milan and Newcastle United also said to be interested in the Scot.
Tavares was at fault for Crystal Palace’s first two goals in a 3-0 defeat in April and was hauled off at half-time. Meanwhile, he was not selected against Leeds United on Sunday, with natural right-back Takehiro Tomiyasu considered a safer option on the left of defence.
In the past, Hickey has suggested he would like to follow in the footsteps of his compatriots Tierney and Liverpool’s Andy Robertson by challenging himself in the Premier League.
Speaking to, he said: ‘I might want to challenge myself somewhere else and have a different experience, but who knows the future.
‘I do see a lot of talk. It’s nice to know there’s interest from other clubs, it gives you some confidence. But you just keep your head down and focus on football.’
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