Arsenal have announced their first signing of the summer transfer window as Nuno Tavares completes his long-awaited move.
Nuno Tavares has become Arsenal’s first summer signing in a deal reportedly worth around €8 million from Benfica.
The 21-year-old joins the Gunners on a long-term contract after arriving in London last week. He had his medical in Portugal before setting off to the English capital.
Tavares, who faced Arsenal in last season’s Round of 32 in the Europa League for Benfica, is set to become back-up for Kieran Tierney in the left-back role.
“He is a young player with great promise who has developed very well with Benfica in recent seasons and has also shown his quality by being part of Portugal Under-21s,” read a statement from Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
“Nuno’s arrival will give the squad extra strength and options in defence, particularly with this energy on the left side of the pitch.
“We look forward to Nuno’s arrival soon, his integration into the Arsenal family and playing in front of our fantastic supporters.”
Tavares will use the No.20 jersey at the Emirates Stadium for next season. The Portuguese defender is set to link up with his new Arsenal teammates once he has completed a period of self-isolation due to COVID regulations. His arrival almost certainly opens the door for Sead Kolasinac to leave the club.
Anderlecht midfielder Albert Lokonga, meanwhile, is set to take a medical ahead of a €17.5m move to Arsenal, with potential add-ons making the deal worth around €21m overall. Talks also remain ongoing with Brighton for Ben White. The defender could be available at £50m (€58.6m) this summer.
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