A twist is fortifying the transfer kitty at the Arsenal in a busy January window. The Gunners 40 percent sell-on provision in the Nuno Tavares agreement of Lazio is set to come into play. According to Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, Saudi Arabians clubs are gaining major interest. This may open a huge sum to the squad of Mikel Arteta barely six months after Tavares left the Emirates on a permanent basis.
The Origins of the Clause
In 2021, Arsenal bought the Portuguese left-back (Benfica) 7m. But due to his lack of chances, he was loaned to Marseille and Lazio. Tavares joined Lazio on June 2025 after Lazio activated an obligation-to-buy option in EUR7-8m. In the deal, Arsenal agreed to take a huge sell-on fee of 40%- double the former reports of 25 percent. This means that they will reap a lot of pay in the event of subsequent resale. This cunning piece of backward integration protects the investment of the club as a fringe player becomes a financial asset.
The Surging Saudi Interest
Recent whispers from Rome suggest Al-Hilal has tabled bids. But Lazio’s president Claudio Lotito has rebuffed offers below €40m, inflated by the Arsenal clause. Intermediaries are active, with the Biancocelesti eyeing funds to dodge financial sanctions. A €40m sale would net Arsenal €16m—more than double their initial outlay—while allowing Tavares, 25, to chase lucrative Gulf riches.
Tavares’ Revival in Italy
Tavares has hit 15 matches since his arrival in Serie A and has assisted four goals and amazed with his pace and crossing. His revival is the opposite of the depth of Arsenal in the left back position where Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jurrien Timber have flourished. However, this provision highlights the vision that Arteta had in terms of trade in players.
Arsenal’s January Boost
This cash windfall can be in use to sign a marquee player as Arsenal look to win the Champions League. Having Nuno Tavares saying that he will trigger a clause, the Emirates faithful is looking forward to a deal that is smart business in the contemporary football.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
