Earlier today, Arsenal and West Ham were dealt a blow, as Premier League rivals Brentford announced the signing of Aaron Hickey.
What’s the story?
Well, some sources claimed that Mikel Arteta was confident of securing a deal for the Scotland international, after Nuno Tavares struggled in his first season at the Emirates Stadium.
West Ham also submitted a bid for Hickey, with David Moyes keen to recruit a new left-back as well.
Now, however, the Gunners and the Hammers will have to look elsewhere, after Brentford wrapped up an £18m deal for the 20-year-old defender.
Hickey put his name up in lights following a brave move from Hearts to Bologna in 2020.
The Scot impressively scored five goals in 36 Serie A appearances last season, while also providing one assist, as he showcased his ability to make an impact in the final third.
As Transfermarkt shows, Hickey also appeared on the right flank on six occasions, so Thomas Frank has signed himself a versatile figure.
Arsenal & West Ham have alternatives
In our view, Arsenal took their foot off the gas with Hickey, as they focus their efforts on signing Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez.
The Gunners are firmly embroiled in a transfer battle with Manchester United for the Argentina international, who the Gunners plan to use as a left-back despite his ability to play at centre-back.
In West Ham’s case, Moyes has been eyeing TSG Hoffenheim gem David Raum, who impressively provided 13 assists from left-back last season.
However, the east Londoners face competition from Manchester City for the Germany international, who would presumably replace Aaron Cresswell at the London Stadium.
Clearly, Arsenal and West Ham didn’t just shortlist Hickey, so it will be interesting to see if they make any progress in their pursuit of alternatives over the new few weeks.
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