Benfica tried to sign Cedric Soares, he could still move to Galatasaray

Benfica made a late attempt to sign Arsenal defender Cedric Soares before the Portuguese transfer deadline, according to Record (page 3).

The right-back has been clearly out-of-favour under manager Mikel Arteta this term and he has managed only 65 minutes across two appearances.

With his contract expiring in the summer, Arsenal have opened the door for his departure and he could yet leave this month, as per Record’s update.

Benfica were keen on securing a cut-price deal earlier on Thursday, but Cedric’s desire for a good and advantageous contract scuppered the move.

The Portuguese champions decided against pursuing a new right-back as a result, but Cedric could still leave for Galatasaray in the coming days.

The Turkish transfer window does not close until February 9. Cedric has a two-and-a-half year deal on the table from the current Super Lig leaders.

Arsenal could offload Cedric this month

Arteta currently has Ben White as an undisputed starter from the right-back role. Cedric has been on the bench, but the club could offload him in the next few days.

Takehiro Tomiyasu will be back with the team after his Asian Cup duty. If Japan go all the way to the final, Tomiyasu is still expected to return by mid-February.

The Gunners also have Jurrien Timber on the cusp of returning to team training. The Dutchman is pencilled to make his long-awaited comeback in March.

Hence, we won’t be surprised if Cedric makes way this month. He is out-of-favour this term. His only start came in a dead-rubber Champions League game versus PSV.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com