Galatasaray are interested in signing Arsenal full-back Cedric Soares, according to reports in the Turkish media. The Super Lig side’s manager Fatih Terim has asked for the player to be snapped up on a free transfer.

The Portuguese international has yet to play for the Gunners since joining on loan from Southampton in January. It is believed the London club paid a £1m loan fee and they are said to be paying his £65,000 a week wages in full.

However, a knee problem prevented Cedric from playing before the football season was suspended, and he is currently sidelined with a facial injury which meant he hasn’t been able to take part in friendlies ahead of the campaign resuming later this month.

The 28-year-old’s loan deal also expires at the end of June and with his contract at Southampton ending at the same time, he could leave before the end of the season.

Reports in the English press claim no progress has been made in talks over short term deal that will allow him to stay at the Emirates, and it is possible he could depart this month and agree a contract with Galatasaray instead.