Serie A side finalises deal for impressive Arsenal loanee, but quick exit possible?

Juventus are weighing up a summer move for Nuno Tavares, with the Arsenal loanee set to complete a permanent transfer to Lazio.

Lazio secured Tavares on a season-long loan last summer, inserting a €5 million option to buy, and reports in Italy suggest the Biancocelesti are now finalising the deal with Arsenal ahead of schedule.

The 25-year-old has impressed in Serie A, producing eight assists in 21 appearances and emerging as one of the division’s standout full-backs during the early part of the season.

Despite recent injury problems, Lazio view the transfer fee and instalment plan as a bargain given his potential and are keen to complete the deal before the special Club World Cup transfer window opens in June.

However, their early move to redeem Tavares has sparked interest from Juventus, who are considering a summer approach once Lazio’s purchase is confirmed.

Juventus are preparing for a period of transition and are already braced for significant departures planned for the summer.

The Bianconeri are assessing options to strengthen at left-back and view Tavares as an exciting and attainable target.

Reports suggest Lazio could be tempted to sell if an offer in excess of €15 million arrives, with Juventus capable of matching that figure if they decide to pursue the Portuguese defender seriously.

Tavares’ start to life in Rome was explosive, with his attacking output placing him among the league’s most dangerous wide players, but his progress has been checked by persistent muscle injuries over the past few months.

Concerns about his fitness have slightly cooled initial expectations around his long-term future at Lazio, although the club are still proceeding with the purchase from Arsenal.

Tavares remains sidelined with a latest knock and there has been little official communication from Lazio regarding his expected return.

While his injuries have impacted his immediate valuation, Juventus are said to believe that Tavares’ physicality, athleticism and creativity still make him a worthwhile investment.

The upcoming Club World Cup window, open from 1 to 10 June, could facilitate an early move if Lazio complete the signing quickly and decide to entertain offers.

For Arsenal, the conclusion of Tavares’ time at the Emirates Stadium is now inevitable, although a swift profit on the initial €5 million deal could still indirectly benefit them if Lazio move him on quickly for a higher fee.

Juventus will continue to monitor developments closely in the coming weeks as they firm up their plans for a crucial summer rebuild.

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