Arsenal loanee Nuno Tavares has been an assist machine this season, and he went clear as the top assister in Europe’s top-five leagues by setting up Pedro’s goal for Lazio on Thursday night.
Lazio were playing away against Como 1907, managed by Cesc Fabregas, but it wasn’t a good night for the former Gunner.
Tavares helped to make it 2-0 in the 31st minute with his low driven cross to Pedro, and his team went on to win the match 5-1.
But it wasn’t all good news for Tavares on the night. After picking up a yellow card for a foul in the 57th minute, he made a silly challenge to earn a second just eight minutes later.
Fortunately for the Arsenal loan defender, Como had also received a red card by that point, and Lazio managed to secure victory 10 versus 10. Even so, he’ll now have to serve a one-game suspension.
That will give Bukayo Saka a chance to reclaim his spot as top assister in Europe’s top-five leagues, with the Arsenal winger just one assist behind Tavares on seven.
Tavares is currently on loan with Lazio, but the deal contains an obligation to buy for €9m (£7.6m) assuming the player meets certain clauses in his contract – most likely appearance clauses. He’ll then be on a deal until June 2029 if he signs.
Lazio certainly seem keen to buy, with club president Lotito telling the media this week that he wouldn’t sell the player for €70m.
As part of Tavares’ transfer, he also has a sell-on clause reportedly worth more than 25% of a future fee.
