Arsenal defender Cedric Soares appears destined to leave the Emirates Stadium on a free transfer this summer, with Turkish clubs circling.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, speaking to CaughtOffside, confirmed that Cedric will not be extending his contract with Arsenal.
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“I wanted to clarify something on players who could leave Arsenal this summer. As I reported yesterday, Cedric Soares is not going to extend his contract at Arsenal – it’s over between the player and the club, and there is not even a conversation to extend his contract. It’s 100% going to be time for them to part ways at the end of this season,” Romano said.
Romano emphasized that Cedric remains professional despite his contract situation emphasising that the experienced Portuguese full-back will remain professional until the end of his contract.
“Soares has some possibilities around Europe and Arsenal are looking at different solutions in that position. The experienced Portuguese full-back will of course remain professional until the end of his contract, then he will make a decision on his next move, and he could have a number of options,” he added.
Romano revealed that Besiktas was previously interested in signing Cedric, but he opted to stay with Arsenal. However, with his departure now confirmed, the Portuguese defender is likely to attract a number of offers from around Europe.
“Turkish clubs, including Besiktas, already wanted Soares recent months, but he decided to stay. Now he will have multiple options around Europe. Nothing is close at the moment but I’m told Cedric will consider different opportunities in order to make a final choice in the summer, not now,” he added.
With Cedric’s departure confirmed, Arsenal are actively looking for solutions in the right-back position. The Gunners will be aiming to replace the experienced defender before the start of next season.
Cedric’s impending departure opens a doorway for both him and Arsenal. He will have the chance to explore new opportunities, while Arsenal can focus on securing a replacement right-back for the upcoming season.
Besiktas are planning to rebuild the squad this summer after a disappointing season. The Black Eagles are already out of the title race but could still finish in the top four for a European competition finish.