Next Arsenal transfer decided as ‘next week’ timeline emerges for defender

A possible timeline has emerged for Cedric Soares to leave Arsenal. The full-back has struggled for minutes in Mikel Arteta’s side, being limited to two appearances this season.

Cedric spent the second half of last season on loan at Fulham, where the 32-year-old made eight appearances in total. Upon his return, the Portugal international was expected to leave Arsenal in the summer after attracting interest from Portugal and Spanish side Villarreal but no move materialised.

Having entered the final six months six months of his contract, football.london understands that Cedric is available to leave during the January transfer window. However, the Gunners would prefer to receive a fee for the full-back, who finds himself behind Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu in the pecking order.

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football.london stated last week that Cedric had been the subject of interest from clubs in Turkey and Spain. Turkish giants Besiktas are claimed to have held talks over a move for the right-back, following the appointment of former Portugal manager Fernando Santos as manager.

While Cedric is unlikely to command a significant fee, his departure would slightly ease the wage bill and all Premier League clubs are keeping a close eye on their finances due to the punishments related to the profit and sustainability rules. Journalist Fabrizio Romano has offered a possible timeline for Cedric to complete a move away from Arsenal.

“In terms of other players who could leave Arsenal, I’d keep it open for Cedric Soares and more players,” Romano said. “Nothing is imminent at this