Arsenal are leading the race to sign Bologna left-back Aaron Hickey despite West Ham reportedly joining the race for his signature. The Gunners are eager to bolster their squad this season with fresh competition for Kieran Tierney high on their list of priorities.
Nuno Tavares was signed from Benfica in the summer of 2021 but the youngster has frequently looked out of his depth when called upon by Mikel Arteta in Tierney's absence. football.london understands that Hickey is a top target for the Spaniard this summer as he looks to add strength in depth ahead of a return to Europe.
But they will not be alone in their pursuit for the 19-year-old. Hickey turned down a move to Bayern Munich to sign for Bologna from Hearts in September 2020 and it has been a smart decision.
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In 36 Serie A appearances this season, the Scotland international has scored five goals and provided one assist. He has also demonstrated his versatility, playing across the backline as well as in midfield, something that will no doubt appeal to Arteta with injuries a frequent problem at the Emirates.
A report from the print edition of Gazzetta Dello Sport stated that David Moyes had joined Arteta in the race for Hickey, however, with West Ham no doubt looking to build on another impressive campaign. But as things stand, it is the Gunners who hold an advantage with the report also stating it is the north Londoners who have currently put forward the highest bid.
A new defender is likely only a small part of Arsenal's summer business, however. Reinforcements are expected to be brought in in midfield and in attack
