Fulham could step up their interest in Cedric Soares ahead of the January transfer window, with Marco Silva keen on the Arsenal defender.
According to Sky Sports, Fulham could accelerate their efforts to sign Cedric Soares from Arsenal in January. The right-back is not playing regularly this season under Mikel Arteta, and Marco Silva is keen to tie up a deal for his compatriot.
Fulham will look to continue where they left off in the summer with their recruitment as Marco Silva wants further experienced stars in January. The Cottagers’ boss is interested in a deal for Cedric Soares of Arsenal, with the right-back not playing enough games at the Emirates.
Cedric is represented by football agent Kia Joorabchian, who helped Fulham sign Willian in the summer. Fulham are looking at a new right-back and a central midfielder in January, with Silva, keen on signing his compatriot from Arsenal.
The right-back joined Arsenal in January 2020 on an initial six-month loan, which was made permanent and penned a deal until 2024. Mikel Arteta was without the right-back in the early parts of the season through injury. However, despite expectations he would play a regular role in their Europa League games, the Portuguese defender has played only two times as a substitute.
#FulhamFC remain interested in signing #Arsenal right-back Cedric Soares in January, after late summer inquiries. RB and CM the priorities for Marco Silva next month. #FFC More on @SkySportsNews https://t.co/OzHTtF6aQx pic.twitter.com/OAfUUf6wMw
— Lyall Thomas (@SkySportsLyall) December 14, 2022
Cedric is reportedly frustrated at a lack of game time and has been looking for a move away from Arsenal. Whether Arteta sanctions a move remains the question, as Arsenal could lose a player with valuable experience heading into a crucial phase of their season.
Arteta has preferred Ben White in the right-back role this season, and Takehiro Tomiyasu is his natural cover. Unfortunately, the duo’s form has rendered Cedric on the sidelines, and it would take a monumental effort to fight his way back into the side.
Arsenal are operating on a thin squad by Liverpool and Manchester City’s standards. Yet, they are in the thick of a title race, and Arteta may count on some of his existing stars, including Cedric. However, if a decent offer lands on their table, they might look to sell.
Fulham are reportedly interested and could step up their chase for the right-back. In addition, the Gunners are reportedly chasing a young prospect in Real Valladolid’s Ivan Fresneda, who could replace Cedric if he is to depart in January.
Cedric is reportedly keen to help out Arsenal in their quest to win the Premier League. However, he would entertain offers if Arteta feels the club do not need the right-back’s services. For now, the Gunners have ample depth in defence. But they are an injury away from plunging back to crisis mode; hence, Arteta might consider keeping Cedric for the remainder of the season.
