Arsenal lead Aaron Hickey transfer race with West Ham also chasing 19-year-old Bologna full-back this summer

ARSENAL are leading the race for Bologna full-back Aaron Hickey, according to reports.

The Gunners are eager to bolster their defence this summer, having missed out on a top four spot.

Mikel Arteta and his staff have identified the left-back position as a key area to improve, with Hickey fitting the bill.

Kieran Tierney has produced brilliant performances for the Gunners since arriving from Celtic - but has struggled to stay injury-free for prolonged periods.

While Nuno Tavares was acquired last summer, but failed to convince in his debut season at the club.

According to Football London, Hickey is a "top target" for the Gunners this summer.

But they are set to face fierce competition for the 19-year-old.

West Ham have entered the race for Hickey's signature, according to Gazzetta.

While Brentford and Newcastle are reportedly also keen.

Hickey has been valued at £21million in some quarters.

FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS - BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS

The teenager burst onto the scene at Hearts during the 2019-20 season, prompting a clamour for his signature.

Bayern Munich were keen, but Hickey remarkably turned them down in order to join Bologna in a £1.5m deal.

The move has been a successful one, with the left-back becoming a regular in Serie A.

He also earned his first senior international caps for Scotland earlier this year, and has been named in Steve Clarke's latest squad for the Tartan Army's crucial World Cup play-off campaign.