Barcelona have been linked with a move for Arsenal right-back Hector Bellerin. Bellerin is a product of the Barca youth academy, having been a part of the system between 2003 and 2011 before leaving for Arsenal in 2011.
As per Sport, the Catalan giants are interested in signing the Spaniard and that there have been discussions with Arsenal sporting director Edu, about a move for Bellerin. The report states that Barca were quoted a fee of €20-25 million. The La Liga side can make a bid for Bellerin only after they sell their current right-back, Nelson Semedo.
Manchester City were reportedly interested in a deal to sign Semedo earlier in the window, with Joao Cancelo going in the opposite direction, but that deal is not on the cards at the moment.
The report firmly states that any move for Hector Bellerin can happen only after the sale of Semedo. The Spanish full-back has three years remaining on his current deal at the Emirates.
Hector Bellerin: A smashing move by Koeman?
Hector Bellerin was touted to become one of the best right-backs in the world a few years ago, but injury and poor form have restricted his game time. The full-back, who is just 25 years of age, has a lot of experience in the Premier League and Champions League, and perhaps needs a change of scenery to recapture his old form and help his growth.
Bellerin is a quick and confident attacking right-back, who likes to dribble forward at every opportunity and put in teasing balls into the box. The Spaniard is a modern full-back who plays like a winger at times on Arsenal’s right.
The full-back could be a good signing for Barcelona’s new manager Ronald Koeman. The right-back position has been a problem area for Barca, with Semedo not being consistent, while Sergi Roberto is not a natural full-back.
A forward-thinking full-back like Hector Bellerin could allow Lionel Messi – or any other player playing on the right-wing – to drift inwards, with the Spaniard making overlapping runs in the final third. Bellerin is well versed with the style of play prevalent at Nou Camp, having come through the ranks at the club, and could integrate into the team quickly.
He is still young and could perhaps reach the potential that many expected of him a few years ago.