Arsenal right-back Hector Bellerin could move away from the Emirates in the summer, with several Spanish clubs interested in his signature.
The Spaniard has been with the Gunners for a long time, having joined the club from Barcelona’s youth academy in 2013.
According to La Razon, the likes of Sevilla, Atletico Madrid and Real Betis are interested in the 25-year-old and they could make a move for him in the summer.
Former Gunners manager Unai Emery had earlier revealed how Bellerin struggled to put in good performances when the supporters were on his back.
He still has some time remaining on his current deal with Arsenal, which expires in 2023. The Spaniard has made over 190 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 8 goals and assisting 25 times. Bellerin has won two FA Cups with the Gunners.
What should Arsenal’s play here be?
Bellerin has had a troublesome few seasons. The Spanish right-back’s form dipped and then he had a few injuries to contend with, which has halted his progression. The full-back was once regarded as one of the most promising defenders in the Premier League, one who could become a world-class player.
But, that hasn’t quite happened for Bellerin. In an Arsenal defence that does not inspire confidence and is error-prone, Bellerin hasn’t been able to do what he does best; maraud forward and attack defences.
The Gunners should let Bellerin leave if they get a good offer as they will not want him to leave on a free transfer when his contract expires, while he shouldn’t be offered a new deal on his current form.
The problem that manager Mikel Arteta has is that he doesn’t have an alternate option at right-back. Cédric Soares, who was signed on loan in January, has not played a game yet as he has been injured. He could be signed on a permanent deal in the summer as his contract with Southampton ends.
Calum Chambers has been injured, hasn’t lived up to expectations, and has played mostly as a centre-back, while Ainsley Maitland-Niles hasn’t been very good when moved to right-back.
If Arteta can sign a good right-back for a cheap price, he should let Bellerin leave. Otherwise, it doesn’t quite make sense.
