Arsenal plot return to Bologna for Takehiro Tomiyasu repeat this summer

Arsenal are reportedly monitoring another Bologna defender ahead of this summer’s transfer window, in the form of 19 year old Aaron Hickey.

The Gunners have already made one successful purchase from the Serie A club, bringing Takehiro Tomiyasu to the club from the north Italian outfit on deadline day last summer, and are looking to repeat the trick.

The Japanese defender has been a revelation at right-back when fit, with his two-footed nature a major help in Arsenal's build-up play and the 23-year-old also dominant in the air.

And, in Hickey, Arsenal are hoping for a move just as successful as they plot a £20m bid for the Scot, who has only been in Italy for a season.

It has been some season, however, with the teenager having scored 5 times in 33 appearances from left-back, and turning in a myriad of impressive displays along the way.

And, as per Football.London, 'Arsenal are interested in signing Bologna left-back Aaron Hickey following his impressive performances'.

Where would Hickey fit in?

Hickey is a natural left-back, who is also capable of playing on the right side of defence. However, he would likely be deployed on the left, with Kieran Tierney out for several months with a knee injury and Nuno Tavares having flattered to deceive in limited appearances this season.

The other side is more congested, with Hector Bellerin set to return from loan at Real Betis and sources telling 101 that Cedric Soares is 'not considering moving from Arsenal and his goal is to continue playing for the team next year'. Tomiyasu, meanwhile, remains first choice.

Should Arsenal move for Hickey, it would likely signal a loan spell for Tavares.

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