For the past couple of seasons, left-back has been a problem position for Arsenal. Kieran Tierney is undoubtedly the club's first choice, but the Scottish international's poor injury record means top-quality backup is required.
A lack of this arguably cost the Gunners during a crucial stage of last season as Granit Xhaka was asked to fill in during the Europa League semi-final first leg against Villarreal with disastrous outcomes. Sources within the club have since admitted that they suffered during that period, and it appeared that they had addressed the issue when Nuno Tavares was brought in from Benfica last summer.
The Portuguese defender impressed during a run in the side in October and November, but his form has tailed off dramatically during the latter half of the season. He was subbed off before the second half in consecutive starts, and despite being given more consistent game time recently, there are still some concerns over his defensive capabilities. With this in mind, it's no surprise that Arsenal are looking for alternatives in the transfer market and football.london understands that Bologna's Aaron Hickey is one of the players being tracked.
