Arsenal have named their price for Nottingham Forest target Nuno Tavares. It was claimed yesterday that the Reds are keen to sign the player as they look to fill their void at left-back.
According to the Evening Standard, Forest are now in talks to sign the player. He’s been deemed surplus to requirements by Mikel Arteta and the club are now keen to recoup £22 million from his sale.
Tavares hasn’t played much at all for Arsenal. He signed for the club for £8 million but has made just 28 appearances for the Gunners, scoring once and claiming two assists.
In 2022, the Reds played Arsenal in the FA Cup. Tavares was hooked by Arteta after just 20 minutes after being given a torrid time by loanee Djed Spence.
It’s important that he’s not judged on that particular performance though. Last season he was playing in Ligue for Marseille and he shone across the campaign playing regular football.
MORE FOREST STORIES
During the 2022/23 campaign, he made 39 appearances for the team who finished third, scoring six goals for the club and proved largely impressive when he did play.
Tavares is allowed to leave Arsenal this summer and Forest are locked in talks with the Gunners. It would appear others are keen to sign him though and the Reds might not be alone in the race.
Arsenal name price to Forest in Tavares hunt
This does feel a little bit pricey. Forest are prioritising a move for a defensive midfielder and that’s likely to be where they will spend the biggest money this summer.
Tavares would be useful though. Squawka shows that in comparison with Ola Aina last season, he came out on top in terms of tackles made and ground duels won.
At £22 million this would seem steep. Although he’s only 23 and would improve, Forest can’t really justify that during a market when they’re trying to bolster other areas of the squad too.
Tavares would be a useful addition to the ranks. Forest, however, must ensure they leave the entire squad well-stocked and perhaps this would be just a bridge too far.