Besiktas open talks for Arsenal defender Rob Holding

Besiktas have opened discussions with Premier League club Arsenal to sign Rob Holding.

Holding is on the fringes of the Arsenal first-team squad and may look for a fresh start in Istanbul, according to RMC Sport’s Loic Tanzi.

Despite showing promise upon signing, Holding has struggled to secure a solid spot in Arsenal’s starting XI, often deputising when injuries befall teammates. 

However, his performances during a run of matches last season when William Saliba was absent were met with mixed reviews, leaving critics questioning his place in the team.

Holding’s stature within the squad has dwindled considerably under the management of Mikel Arteta. 

The Englishman’s future is uncertain, with limited playing time and opportunities to showcase his abilities.

Holding’s journey with Arsenal began in 2016 after a move from Bolton Wanderers. He has since played 162 matches for the Gunners across various competitions. 

He made only 24 appearances last season and only managed to start 12 games.

Despite his versatility across the backline, Arteta preferred to use defensive midfielder Thomas Partey at right-back in their league opener against Nottingham Forest last Saturday.

Holding’s contract with Arsenal expires in 2025. The club is keen on securing a reasonable transfer fee this summer and will use it to pursue new players amid injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Jurrien Timber.

The summer transfer window has been a bustling period for Arsenal. They have added Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber, Declan Rice and David Raya to their squad.