Fulham are considering making a move for out-of-favour Arsenal defender Cedric Soares, according to reports.
The Gunners are primed for a busy January transfer window, with Mikel Arteta’s side top of the Premier League after a brilliant first half of the season. Despite that, there is an acknowledgement that the squad needs reinforcements if they are to hold off Manchester City and win their first title since 2004.
But while much of the focus has been on incomings, there is the distinct possibility of some players pushing for a move. Portugal international Cedric has made his frustration at a lack of opportunities public - having made just two appearances in the league all season.
And the decision to shift Ben White from the heart of Arsenal ’s defence to right-back, means Cedric has only fallen down the pecking order further. Sky Sports report that Fulham are hoping to capitalise on that situation by launching an offer to sign the 31-year-old permanently when the window reopens.
Previous reports have suggested that Arteta would block any exit for the former Southampton defender, until another option can be secured. However, Cedric’s vocal annoyance at his lack of opportunities could yet force Arsenal’s hand.
"Of course I am disappointed that I have not played yet this season. I believe since I arrived at Arsenal I have been giving positive answers on the pitch every time I had the chance to play.
"I have been working hard every day, as this is the only way I know to get where you want to be,” Cedric explained last month.
“Of course I want to play and I want to help the team to win and achieve its goals and I will grab the opportunity when I get it. I feel I am in great shape and I am always 100 per cent ready to help the team."
Arteta responded to Cedric’s plea, admitting that the defender does deserve more playing time and that he would try to deliver it: "The competition is one thing, the second one is because he was injured for a while.
"He had a recurring injury but now he is fully fit and he's a player that deserves to play and I want to give him the minutes because he deserves it.”
Ben White has performed admirably in his new position and has managed to not only keep Cedric out of the side, but also Takehiro Tomiyasu. His manager has spoken in glowing terms about the versatile defender after White left England’s World Cup squad prematurely.
Asked about White returning to the squad for their warm-weather training camp, Arteta said: “Very pleased. Everybody has been giving him a lot of support and love. We know the reasons he had to leave the camp. We are delighted to have him back and he looked in really good shape.
On possible transfers next month, the Spaniard added: “We are looking and we are very active looking at the possibilities. If we can find the players that can strengthen the team we will try.”
