Arsenal take first steps to securing transfer of in-demand Bologna youngster Aaron Hickey

Ciaran McCarthy 27 May 2022 5:47 PM

Arsenal have taken steps to securing the transfer of Aaron Hickey, as reports suggest the Gunners have placed a bid for the Bologna man.

Hickey has been plying his trade in the Serie A with Bologna for the past two seasons. The 19-year-old left Hearts in 2020 for a fee of £1.5million.

He made 12 appearances in his first season, with illness and injury keeping him out for a period. Despite that, he showed that he was a capable player, and has been afforded more opportunities this season.

Indeed, Hickey played in each game he was available for in the league this term. The Scot scored five goals and provided one assist in Serie A.

Following a good couple of seasons, Hickey has garnered attention from a number of clubs. A host of Premier League sides are reportedly keen on the youngster.

There have been recent reports that Arsenal have struck an agreement with Hickey. While those talks have been denied, Arsenal have apparently taken steps to securing the transfer of Hickey.

That is according to Gazzetta dello Sport, who report that the Gunners have made Bologna an offer.

The report states that the offer is of €25million (£21.2million).

Bologna would also apparently need to sign a new left-back if Hickey was to leave.

Should they accept Arsenal’s reported offer, they should be able to replace their youngster.

Hickey a good Arsenal signing

Hickey has the hallmarks of a good signing for Arsenal. The youngster has shown his versatility this season, playing on the left and right of both a flat back four, and as a wing-back in a back five.

His ability to both attack and defend will also stand him in good stead in the Premier League. Modern full backs are one of the most important positions in football, and Hickey seems capable on both ends of the field.

Arsenal will be playing more football this season than they did in the previous campaign. They secured a Europa League place, and a more packed schedule will mean more hands on deck is important.

Furthermore, Kieran Tierney – Arsenal’s first-choice left-back – was out for a period of the season. Having a capable player to fill in will be good for the side.

What’s more, Hickey rivalling Tierney – or other stars, given his versatility – will mean the players in the team are likely to up their standards in order to maintain a place in the side.

Arsenal Bologna Aaron Hickey