Arsenal star Cedric Soares 'wants to move on' but could see his route out of the Emirates Stadium blocked by Mikel Arteta in January, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.

The Gunners have gone into the break from domestic action sitting five points clear at the top of the Premier League, but there may be incomings and outgoings when the transfer window reopens at the turn of the year.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What's the latest news involving Cedric?

According to Italian media outlet TuttoMercatoWeb, Cedric could move onto pastures new during the early stages of 2023 after gaining interest from a number of clubs.

The report suggests the 34-cap Portugal international is being courted by Villarreal, Fulham and Bayer Leverkusen, leading to talks already taking place with his representatives.

Cedric has been on Arsenal's books since initially joining on loan from Premier League rivals Southampton in January 2020, while the move was made permanent a matter of months later.

But there is uncertainty over the right-back's long-term future as he is set to enter the final 18 months of his £75,000-per-week contract at the turn of the year.

Cedric is not currently in Qatar after being overlooked by Portugal boss Fernando Santos when putting together his World Cup squad.

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

What has Michael Bridge said about Cedric?

Bridge understands that Cedric is the subject of interest from a number of clubs and he is now looking to seal his departure in January.

However, the journalist believes Arteta will not be open to offloading the 31-year-old unless he can bring in an alternative option.

Bridge told GIVEMESPORT: "My information is that Arteta feels they might be a little bit light, so they might stop one of the fringe players going.

"For example, there's a lot of interest in Cedric and my understanding is he wants to move on, but Arsenal won't allow that unless they bring someone else in.

"I think, at Arsenal, maybe we'll see one or two coming in and one or two going out in January. But I think it would be quality coming in and surplus going out. I don't think Arsenal have to worry too much yet about any big names leaving."

Should Arsenal sell Cedric in January?

Considering Cedric is approaching the final year-and-a-half of his contract, it would make sense for Arsenal to sanction the Community Shield winner's exit during the winter window.

It is clear that the Portuguese is not at the forefront of Arteta's plans as he has only been afforded 119 minutes of action and one start since the season got underway.

Ben White has made the right-back slot his own, starting all of the north Londoners' Premier League fixtures so far, and his performances have restricted Cedric's opportunities.

If Arsenal receive a January offer for Cedric, who has made 59 appearances for the club, they would be wise to come to an agreement.

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