Serie A giants Lazio are reportedly plotting a January loan move for Arsenal defender Nuno Tavares, who is yet to cement his place at the Emirates.
According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Italian giants Lazio are keen to take Arsenal full-back, Nuno Tavares, on loan in the ongoing January transfer window.
The 21-year-old joined Arsenal from Benfica last summer. He has since made 19 appearances for the club in all competitions, racking up two assists in the process. A left-back by trade, Tavares is still an emerging player and will need to show more before becoming a mainstay under Mikel Arteta.
However, the Portuguese defender has started just ten games and has often come off the bench for a token number of minutes. Tavares was notably taken off in the 34th minute in Arsenal’s FA Cup loss to Nottingham Forest and was a substitute in their Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Liverpool.
It is fair to say that Tavares is yet to get pulses racing in north London. He could be handed a reprieve should Lazio have their way. The Serie A giants are keen to strengthen their left-back position and are eyeing Tavares as an option.
The Biancocelesti are currently in the eighth spot in Serie A and some way off challenging for a top-four finish. However, a strong second half to the campaign could help them turn their fortunes around.
Tavares can also benefit from some time away from the Emirates to get his bearings together. The 21-year-old is far from a finished piece and has at times looked out of place in the English top-flight. The Serie A plays at a slower pace than in England, potentially permitting Tavares to adapt easily to the style of play.
While Lazio are interested, a move for the Arsenal man will only happen if they sell Manuel Lazzari. The Italian is currently on Atalanta’s wishlist, and his exit could pave the way for the Serie A club to move for Tavares on loan.
When fit, Kieran Tierney is Arsenal’s first-choice left-back. Sead Kolasinic and Cedric Soares can also do a job in the position when needed. Permitting Tavares to leave on loan might not be the worst idea for Arsenal to that end.
The 21-year-old may have a better chance of gaining regular playing time at Lazio, which could aid his development. Having him return to the club next summer with renewed purpose and optimism could help Arsenal in the long run.