Arsenal will pass on a permanent deal for on-loan Southampton fullback Cedric Soares.

The Mirror says parent club Southampton, Cedric and the Gunners are yet to agree to an extension on the Portuguese full-back's deal.

Cedric joined Arsenal in a package worth up to £5million in the January window as cover for Hector Bellerin, whose injury struggles have persisted this season.

He arrived in north London carrying a knee injury himself, but did not feature in either of the Gunners' friendly matches against Charlton Athletic or Brentford this week despite returning to fitness.

It is understood the 28-year-old suffered a facial injury and severe swelling after being hit by a ball during training.

Cedric has been wearing a protective mask over his nose since the incident and manager Mikel Arteta decided against risking him during the friendly matches behind closed doors.