Arsenal continue to push for Bologna defender Aaron Hickey and a meeting over his possible signing could take place within a matter of hours.
That’s according to Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport, who claim that Arsenal could hold talks with Bologna very, very soon.
It’s claimed that Arsenal have ‘set their sights’ on signing Hickey and the two clubs may meet to negotiate a transfer.
Bologna want a deal of ‘important numbers’ as they seemingly eye a big pay day for the Scottish full back.
The report notes that Napoli also want to sign Hickey, which is something that continues to be talked about.
Napoli allegedly opened talks over an £18million deal at the back end of April, so that’s the kind of fee Arsenal are looking at for Hickey.
Hickey, 19, joined Bologna from Hearts in 2020 having shown huge potential in Scotland.
The defender, who can play at left back or right back, has recorded an impressive five goals in 34 Serie A games this season, adding one assist too.
Hickey’s ability to play on both sides of defence has to be appealing to Arsenal.
The Gunners have settled starters at right back and left back with Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney both in place.
Yet there are question marks over both Cedric Soares and Nuno Tavares, with Hickey potentially viewed as an exciting talent who can cover both roles.
It would also be a fascinating move for Scottish football, seeing Tierney and Hickey join the same club as they prepare to be in the Scotland side for years to come.
Arsenal face other competition for Hickey though, with Fabrizio Romano reporting in March that Newcastle United would like to sign him.
It looks like Arsenal are ready to strike though, and will hope that imminent talks can help them beat Napoli and Newcastle to Hickey’s signature.
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