As per a report from Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Benfica defender Nuno Tavares is set to sign for Arsenal in the coming hours.
The 21-year-old has emerged as an option for the Gunners who were keen on signing a backup for Kieran Tierney. A few names were suggested including Josh Doig and Ryan Bertrand, but they chose to sign the Portugal left-back.
According to the report, the player has arrived in London and will put pen to paper on a contract in a matter of hours. The deal between the north Londoners and Benfica is said to be worth around €8m + €2.5m.
The add-ons included in the transfer are contingent on three conditions. O Jogo report that the extra amount will be paid should the youngster be capped by his country. The other two conditions are the Gunners qualifying for the Champions League and Tavares making a certain number of appearances.
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Since the left-back arrived at Benfica in 2015 to join their youth academy, he has slowly risen up the ranks and became involved in the first team. Opportunities have been limited due to the presence of Alejandro Grimaldo but to Tavares’ credit, he has managed to show real glimpses of the talent.
When the 21-year-old signs on the dotted line, he will become the Gunners’ first signing of the summer. After finishing the last two seasons in eighth place, a lot of investment was expected to enhance the squad. By signing the young defender, the north Londoners have strengthened their left-back area which was a necessity going forward.
Tavares also has the ability to play on the right flank which makes him a valuable member of the squad. With pre-season set to start soon and Tierney on a break after the Euros, it will give the Portuguese a chance to showcase his skills.
Doing well in these matches up will give the defender a chance to start some games perhaps in the Cup or when Tierney has to be rested. This ability to rotate is the primary reason why the Benfica man has been brought in. It will not be long before we get to see Tavares in the Arsenal red and white, and this promises to be an exciting signing.
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