Talks Expected 'Next Week' For Reported Arsenal Target Aaron Hickey

Arsenal's need for a signing at full-back this summer is clear. The usual first choice at left-back and right-back, Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu respectively, missed 24 Premier League games between them through injury last season. While their replacements were capable, form was inconsistent and ultimately the lack of depth cost Arsenal in the table.

While it is not clear yet whether Cedric Soares or Nuno Tavares will leave the club, reports suggest Arsenal will target a full-back nonetheless. Bologna's Aaron Hickey is a name that has been linked strongly with the Gunners, the Scotsman reportedly being courted by a number of Premier League clubs.

The latest comes from one of Italy's largest newspapers, Corriere dello Sport. It is claimed Brentford have had a bid rejected for the defender and Bologna are looking for a fee in the region of: '€20-22m plus bonuses'. It is thought Bologna are planning to deploy a similar strategy used in the sale of Tomiyasu in which they were patient, waiting to maximise the fee received. Despite this, the newspaper report talks are expected between Arsenal and Bologna as early as next week.

Aaron Hickey has progress well for Bologna this season.

The 20-year-old made the move to Italy in 2020, joining from Hearts for a fee believed to be in the region of £1.5m with Bayern Munich reportedly also interested. His first season in Serie A was unfortunately plagued by injury but his second has progressed extremely well. The defender was ever-present for Bologna, appearing in 36 games and scoring an impressive five goals along the way.

Hickey was often deployed in a left wing-back position with Bologna favouring a system with a back three. This could present some difficulties over any transfer to Arsenal with Mikel Arteta's side usually playing with a back four, but Hickey certainly has experience in such a system from his time in Scotland.

Notably, the defender is very two-footed and can conceivably play on both sides of the defence. This could appeal to Arsenal, who need cover in both positions.

Whether Arsenal is Hickey's transfer destination this summer, remains to be seen. The defender is heavily rumoured to be open to a Premier League move this summer and Arsenal will surely be vying for his signature.