Arsenal have signed Benfica left-hander Nuno Tavares on a long-term deal, the north London club announced on Saturday.
ESPN reported last month that Arsenal were in talks to sign Tavares. The club said the 21-year-old defender would be seen as a back-up option for Kieran Tierney, who signed a new long-term contract with the club last month.
Tavares has made 41 appearances in all competitions for Benfica since his professional debut in 2019, including a substitute against Arsenal in the Europa League round-of-32 in February.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said in a statement: "He is a young player with great promise, who has developed very well with Benfica in recent seasons and has also shown his quality by being part of Portugal Under-21 "
Welcome to The Arsenal, Nuno Tavares 👋 pic.twitter.com/379qyLXrxG
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 10, 2021
"Nuno's arrival will give the squad additional strength and options in defence, especially with this energy on the left side of the pitch. We look forward to Nuno's arrival, his integration into the Arsenal family and playing in front of our illustrious supporters "
Technical Director Edu said: "Nuno is a talented young player who was desired by many clubs across Europe. He will provide a strong back-up in the left-back position.
"We look forward to growing and developing with him and becoming a valued member of the first team squad."