According to Portuguese daily Record, Arsenal right-back Cedric Soares turned down a trade to Benfica in January owing to financial concerns.
The former Portugal international has fallen out of favor at Emirates Stadium and has yet to play in the Premier League this season. Last season, he made just two league appearances for Arsenal before being loaned to Fulham for the second half.
Cedric joined North London on a free transfer in the summer of 2020, after spending six months on loan at Arsenal from Southampton. He has made 61 appearances for the club in different competitions, scoring twice and assisting five times.
Given the increased competition for the right-back position, the 32-year-old defender has struggled to get playing time. Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu are both capable of performing the position, while the injured Jurrien Timber may cover in when needed.
Cedric’s contract with the Emirates expires in the summer, and he is anticipated to depart the club on a free transfer. According to the aforementioned source, Benfica has withdrawn from the competition for the defender owing to his financial demands.
The former Saints full-back is expected to join Turkey, with Besiktas, Trabzonspor, and Galatasaray all keen in signing him.
Arteta Commends Martinelli in Arsenal's 3-1 Victory over Liverpool
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Gabriel Martinelli’s performance in the club’s 3-1 victory against Liverpool on Sunday night (February 4). Arsenal are currently two points behind Liverpool, who lead the Premier League.
Martinelli also scored, sliding the ball into an empty goal to put his team up 2-1 in the second half after Alisson’s blunder (67′).
Regarding the forward’s performance, Arteta said (via the club’s official website)
He appears confident and sharp, proving to be a constant threat today. His goal showcased his intuition, cheekiness, and streetwise play.
On the night, Martinelli won four of his five ground duels, finished two of three attempted dribbles, and generated one huge opportunity. He has five goals and two assists in 21 Premier League appearances this season.
Expect the 22-year-old winger to start Arsenal’s next league game against West Ham United on Sunday, February 11.