‘Definite interest’: Arsenal really want to sign ‘amazing’ £21m full-back, fits Gunners profile – journalist

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Arsenal have been linked with Bologna’s Aaron Hickey in recent weeks.

And according to Ryan Taylor of the Daily Express, the Gunners are “definitely interested” in the defender.

However, Taylor – writing on GiveMeSport – claims there’s “nothing at the moment” to suggest it’s a done deal.

Earlier this month, Calcio Napoli 24 claimed Arsenal and Bologna had agreed a £21million deal for Hickey.

The outlet claimed Bologna sporting director Riccardo Bigon flew to London recently for talks with the Gunners.

And those discussions reportedly led to Arsenal and their Italian counterparts making an agreement for the player.

Similarly, Calciomercato claimed Arsenal had won the race to sign the 19-year-old ahead of several Italian sides.

At this current stage, Taylor believes that Hickey isn’t close to signing for the Gunners.

Nonetheless, he claims Arsenal definitely want to bring the left-back to the Emirates Stadium.

Taylor wrote on GiveMeSport: “He’s obviously an interesting player who’s taken an unusual path to Serie A.

But he fits the profile Arsenal are looking for. He’s young, versatile and has got a good ceiling.

“So, there is definite interest in Hickey, but nothing at the moment to suggest it’s a done deal.”

“He is a good footballer”

Arteta currently has Kieran Tierney and Nuno Tavares in his ranks at left-back.

However, Tierney’s injury cost Arsenal dear, with Tavares struggling as the Scot’s deputy this term.

Meanwhile, Hickey has taken his game to the next level since swapping Hearts for Bologna.

He turned out 36 times in the Italian top-flight this season, scoring five goals and laying on one assist.

Steven Naismith labelled Hickey’s development in Italy “amazing“

“Aaron is mature enough beyond his years and his move to Italy tells you that,” Naismith told the Scottish Daily Express.

“He is happy to go and have that experience and wants to do well.

“He is still very young and still got a lot to learn and develop as a player but he is a good footballer.”

This deal is a no-brainer for Arsenal, signing a young, first-team ready talent with a high ceiling for a relatively low sum.