Arsenal’s hopes of signing Nicolas Tagliafico from Ajax have taken a bit of a hit, with the player’s agent talking up a possible move to Italy and Serie A instead.

Tagliafico have both been talking up the possibility of a transfer recently, with Arsenal reportedly on his case. The player rejected a contract extension and admitted he was ‘flattered’ to be linked with Arsenal, whilst his agent confirmed the left-back was considering his options.

With Nacho Monreal mostly playing at centre-back and possibly running out his contract this summer, the Gunners are likely to be in the market for a left-back. Tagliafico has five goals and six assists in 39 appearances and a run to the Champions League semi-final, so he’d make a great option.

Unfortunately, the 26-year-old’s agent is now pushing a move to Italy in the media.

“Inter Milan and Italian football are always attractive destinations for Argentine players,” said Ricardo Schlieper (via Metro). “Let’s not forget, like it was once said, we’re Italians who speak Spanish.

“Everything’s very familiar. It’s like being at home. Tagliafico has always been our priority for Italy, but in the most appropriate moment, we will find the right place. We will see what happens.”

You never really know where you stand with agent quotes. Maybe he’s just trying to create some competition between Arsenal and the Serie A clubs to hike up the price and get himself a bigger fee. Perhaps neither the Gunners nor the Italian sides have shown any interest and he’s just trying to generate it. We’ll have to wait and see this summer.