Nuno Tavares nearing Nottingham Forest transfer as Arsenal continue clear out

Nuno Tavares is edging closer to a move from Arsenal to Nottingham Forest, football.london understands.

The 23-year-old arrived in 2021 and had a mixed first season in north London, playing 28 matches and scoring one goal. After the arrival of Alex Zinchenko though, the Portugal under-21 international was sent out on loan to Marseille, and despite a decent campaign in Ligue 1 he is no longer viewed as part of Mikel Arteta's plans.

Tavares has attracted interest from Wolfsburg and Werder Bremen this summer. However, as football.london reported earlier this month, the player's preference has been to stay in the Premier League.

West Ham reportedly showed interest, but never made an official approach, while Aston Villa explored the possibility of a loan deal. Nottingham Forest however, showed the most interest as Steve Cooper looks to bolster his full back options.

As things stand Forest have just one orthodox left back in Harry Toffolo, although he has missed the season so far through injury. Talks began earlier in the window over a possibility of a deal, and after initially stalling they are back on with just two days remaining until Friday's deadline.

It is understood that the talks are centring around the possibility of a loan deal for Tavares that could include a £12million option to buy. The 23-year-old's current contract expires in 2025, although Arsenal have the option to extend by a further 12 months.

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Tavares is one several players that Edu is looking to move on before the transfer window closes on September 1. Folarin Balogun is expected to complete a permanent move to Monaco soon, while the Gunners are open to offers on