The left-back’s temporary deal with Nottingham Forest contained a purchase clause, but various issues meant he didn’t play a huge amount for them, and it was unsurprising when they opted not to activate their option to buy.
Amid links to various other clubs, Tavares has suggested he could still play for Arsenal instead.
“I have in mind to return to Arsenal and have a good pre-season,” Tavares told Record (via Sport Witness).
“Regardless of what happens in the future, I will always do my best, as I have done in all pre-seasons, to have a place at the club.
“I always try to do my work in the best way. Then it’s up to the club to decide whether I’m a valid option or not.”
As for the competition for places at Arsenal, Tavares added: “It’s not something I think about much, because we must always have competition. I played for one of the biggest clubs, Benfica, where there was huge competition.
“I know my value and I don’t let anything affect me. I trust my work.”
The most recent reports suggested that Lazio have joined Ajax in the race to sign Tavares this summer. The Serie A club have made contact with the player’s representatives, though he isn’t currently a priority signing for them.
In the meantime, it looks like Tavares will be playing for Arsenal in pre-season. With Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior having played at Euro 2024, and Kieran Tierney injured, there could be a game or two for Tavares before everyone else is back.
It’s up to the 24-year-old to make his case in whatever pre-season minutes he gets.
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