Arsenal defender Cedric Soares is in advanced talks to join Turkish giants Besiktas this month, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed the 32-year-old has agreed personal terms with the Istanbul-based side but there is not yet an agreement between the clubs.
Arsenal are demanding a loan fee or transfer fee before sanctioning a departure for Soares this month.
The Portugal international is out of contract at the end of the season, when he is able to walk away from the Emirates Stadium on a free transfer.
Mikel Arteta’s side are keen to cash in on the right-back by extracting a fee from Besiktas for his services.
It is believed Soares could join on a permanent deal this month or head to Turkey on loan before signing as a free agent in the summer window.
Either way, a well-placed source has told Football Insider that Arsenal are keen for Besiktas to pay a fee.
The ex-Southampton star has made just two senior appearances for the Gunners this season and earned a rare start in the 1-1 Champions League draw against PSV Eindhoven last month.
He joined Arsenal four years ago but has managed just 61 appearances for the club in that time, notching two goals and five assists.
Soares, who helped Portugal win the European Championships in 2016, has been on the bench for the Gunners’ last eight Premier League games.
Arteta’s side, who line up with Ben White on the right-hand side of their defence when at full strength, sit fourth in the Premier League.
They are next in action against Crystal Palace on Saturday (20 January).
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