Arsenal have found an agreement for the summer transfer of Bologna’s Aaron Hickey, according to a report from Italy.

ROME, ITALY: Ainsley Maitland-Niles of AS Roma battles for possession with Aaron Hickey of Bologna during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Bologna FC at Stadio Olimpico on May 01, 2022. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY: Ainsley Maitland-Niles of AS Roma battles for possession with Aaron Hickey of Bologna during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Bologna FC at Stadio Olimpico on May 01, 2022. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Arsenal and Serie A side Napoli have been linked with Bologna full-back Aaron Hickey in recent weeks, but CalcioNapoli24.it report that the Gunners are pulling ahead in the race.

Bologna sporting director Riccardo Bigon reportedly flew to London in the last few days to meet with Arsenal, reaching a fee agreement between €20-25m for Hickey’s transfer.

Arsenal’s relationship with Bologna is strong following the Takehiro Tomiyasu transfer, and they’re now simply sorting out the final details before completing another deal with the side.

Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli initially reported in early May that Napoli and Arsenal were interested in Hickey. Arsenal made enquiries about the player, with the Serie A side setting a price tag of €20m.

Football.London then confirmed that Arsenal are monitoring Hickey ahead of the summer transfer window, and they’re interested in signing the versatile full-back.

Hickey is primarily left-footed and a left-back, but he’s one of the most ambidextrous players around at the moment and can easily play on the right as well.

Scotland's defender Aaron Hickey keeps his eyes on the ball during the friendly football match between Scotland and Poland at Hampden Park in Glasgow on March 24, 2022. (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images)
Scotland’s defender Aaron Hickey keeps his eyes on the ball during the friendly football match between Scotland and Poland at Hampden Park in Glasgow on March 24, 2022. (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Following those reports, Hickey responded to questions on the speculation.

“I do see a lot of talk,” Hickey said. “It’s nice to know there’s interest from other clubs, it gives you some confidence. But you just keep your head down and focus on football.”

Given Arsenal’s issues with full-back injuries this season, Hickey could be a smart investment. Kieran Tierney and Tomiyasu have both spent extended periods on the sidelines, which has hurt Arsenal on a few occasions.

At 19 years old, Hickey is another player Arsenal could potentially rely on for the long term as well.