Arsenal’s attempts to sell Nuno Tavares to Olympique Marseille are being hindered by Nottingham Forest, according to reports. After a successful loan spell in France last season, Marseille is eager to secure the defender on a permanent deal. Initially reluctant to let Tavares go, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is now open to a sale. Selling Tavares would be beneficial for Arsenal, as it would help fund a move for a much-needed center-forward. However, Nottingham Forest is standing in the way of the transfer.
Tavares joined Forest on loan for the 2023/24 season with an option for the Premier League side to buy him for £12m. However, it seems unlikely at this point, as he has only made six appearances this season. Although he played in three league games in September, he didn’t feature again until the new year. The new Forest manager, Nuno Espirito Santo, appears to be more interested in the 23-year-old than his predecessor Steve Cooper.
Despite Tavares’ status in the first team, Forest has no intention of sending him back to Arsenal in January, as they are battling to avoid relegation. Additionally, there is no recall clause in Tavares’ contract, making it even more challenging for Arsenal and Marseille. The exact amount Marseille is willing to pay for Tavares is unknown. Forest is currently 16th in the table and will face Arsenal in the league on January 30th after an FA Cup fourth-round clash at Bristol City this weekend.
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