Besiktas has initiated negotiations with Arsenal regarding the potential summer transfer of defender Rob Holding. Earlier, the Turkish club had been engaged in advanced talks with Arsenal concerning a transfer for Nicolas Pepe. However, the Pepe deal fell through due to Arsenal's refusal to terminate the player's contract, opting instead for a nominal fee, a proposition that Besiktas hesitated to accept.
Rob Holding was thrust into the Arsenal lineup last season due to an injury to William Saliba. However, it quickly became evident that the 27-year-old did not meet the criteria for playing in Mikel Arteta's system. He was subsequently substituted, making way for the newly-acquired Jakub Kiwior. Following this change, Arsenal secured a victory against Newcastle at St James' Park, with the Polish center-back partnering alongside Gabriel in defense.
Arsenal is currently in talks to offload Rob Holding, aiming to secure a deal for the defender this summer. Holding, who arrived from Bolton in 2016, has been a dedicated contributor to the club's cause. He notably played a key role in silencing Diego Costa during the FA Cup final at Wembley, which contributed to Arsenal's victory in the competition. Now, negotiations are underway with Besiktas as Arsenal seeks to find a suitable arrangement for the center-back's departure.
