Nuno Tavares Agrees Terms With Saudi Giants – Lazio & Arsenal Set for January Boost | OneFootball

Lazio full-back Nuno Tavares is reportedly close to sealing a transfer to Al-Ittihad after agreeing personal terms with the Saudi club.

The Background

The Portuguese joined the Biancocelesti in the summer of 2024, initially sealing a loan move from Arsenal, before making his stay permanent last June. The 25-year-old enjoyed a stellar start to life in Rome, producing eight assists in as many Serie A outings. However, he was impeded by a series of muscular injuries throughout the second half of the season.

Nuno Tavares’ Rise & Fall at Lazio

After thriving in Marco Baroni’s system last term, Tavares has been struggling to find his feet under the tutelage of Maurizio Sarri, who demands more defensive and tactical commitment from his players. After costly errors against Roma and Bologna, the former Marseille and Nottingham Forest player is now considered a back-up for Luca Pellegrini, with a January departure looking inevitable.

Tavares Strikes an Agreement with Al-Ittihad

In his latest update on Fabrizio Romano’s Italian YouTube channel, Italian journalist Matteo Moretto revealed that Tavares has already found an agreement with Al-Ittihad. The Saudi Pro League champions are currently coached by Sergio Conceicao, who urged the club to sign his compatriot. The former Lazio winger already tried to buy the left-back last January during his brief tenure at AC Milan.

Arsenal Watching with Interest

However, Al-Ittihad have yet to find an agreement with Lazio on the transfer fee and the formula, but more rounds of negotiations are expected in the coming days, as all parties are hoping to reach the finish line.

Arsenal would also benefit from the Portuguese star’s transfer. The Premier League leaders sold Tavares to Lazio for just €6 million, but they included a sell-on fee between 35% and 40% on a future resale.

Lazio Could Replace Tavares with Aaron Martin

The Biancocelesti finally managed to lift the transfer ban that has been blocking their market since the summer, as confirmed on Tuesday. Therefore, they will be able to sign a replacement for Tavares. Genoa’s Aaron Martin is considered Sarri’s favorite profile for the role. The 28-year-old Spaniard should be available on a cut price, as his contract is set to expire at the end of the season.