By Max Mishcon
Throughout the 20/21 season, Kieran Tierney's relatively frequent absences stuck a dagger to the heart of Arsenal's attacking threat. Both Cedric Soares and Granit Xhaka covered the Scotsman with varying degrees of success, nevertheless there was a back-up-left-back-sized void that needed filling.
Nuno Tavares has been called upon to fill this void and is set to be the Gunner's first signing of the Summer.
The 21-year-old arrives after a breakout season in Portugal for Benfica having only played 30 senior matches in his career. Tavares made his debut in October 2018 and has since played second fiddle to the established Alex Grimaldo.
However, the Portugal under-21 international has impressed in his limited minutes. With a physique, vigour and elegance similar to that of Alphonso Davies, the former Sporting Lisbon man stands at 6ft and has no problem getting to the byline and delivering a cross. Also possessing quick and nimble feet for someone standing at 6ft, Tavares will often look to progress the ball into central areas, picking up many pre-assists in Liga Nos this season.
Nuno and Benfica actually played against Arsenal this season, bowing out in the Europa League thanks to a late Aubameyang goal.
Tavares also enjoys playing the piano and spending time with his dogs (maybe a bit too much).
The player of Cape Verdean descent will look to pick up minutes in the respective cups, as Tierney's new contract emphasises not only his status as a starter, but as a key member of the squad.
For around £7 million, a promising 21-year-old being brought in as cover is exactly the type of business we should be doing this Summer.
Welcome to the Arsenal, Nuno Tavares!
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