Aaron Hickey could replace Arsenal ‘liability’ after stance confirmed – expert
Kevin Campbell suspects Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is interested in signing Bologna defender Aaron Hickey because he cannot trust Nuno Tavares.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Gunners and Everton striker said Tavares, 22, has been “a liability” this season and is “too erratic.”
According to Football.London‘s Chris Wheatley (3 May), Arsenal have set their sights on signing Hickey, 19, this summer.
The left-back has enjoyed an impressive campaign in Serie A with Bologna.
Speaking to Sky Sports, via the Scottish Express (7 May), Hickey revealed he is aware of and flattered by speculation surrounding him with a move to the Emirates.
His contract with Bologna runs until the end of June 2024.
When asked by Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs for his thoughts on the reported interest, Campbell said: “It shows that Arteta isn’t convinced by Nuno.
“Nuno has been a bit too erratic this season. Defensively he has been a liability. You cannot have that.
“A manager needs to be able to trust his defenders. The fact that Tavares has been a bit flakey unsettles the whole back four.
“It would be a good move to go for Aaron Hickey. He’s been doing well in Italy.
“[Takehiro] Tomiyasu knows Bologna well so I’m sure he could give some advice.
“Kieran Tierney if often out so there could be real game time for Hickey at Arsenal. It could be a good move.”
In other news, William Saliba has been cited by an expert as Arsenal close in on ‘exciting’ first summer signing.