The talk surrounding Hector Bellerin’s Arsenal future is growing ever more consistent in the media, with rumours speculating that Barcelona are stepping up their interest in the player.
Bellerin has previously stated how he is more than happy at Arsenal, quoting that he remains loyal to the Gunners for their devotion to beginning of his professional career. He owes a lot to Arsene Wenger and states that North London is his home now, despite strong desires to previously play for Barcelona.
On the potential interest from Barcelona, Bellerin said: ‘Any player would be flattered by interest from Barca. It’s the best club in the world and that is very nice. The fact that I grew up in the Barca academy also makes this a bit more special, although for now I’m focused on these games and on the season, and the rest will come later.’
Bellerin of course made his way through the ranks at Barcelona before making the move to London and ever since he broke into the Arsenal line up, his former side have reportedly been monitoring his progress. The Spanish side have reportedly held talks with Arsenal in the past about Bellerin, but so far the Gunners have shown no interest in making a deal. A report today however does suggest that Arsenal would consider an offer for Bellerin, if the player does intend to leave in the summer.
Arsenal have supposedly set the figure at around £42 million, a ridiculous fee for a defender, even in this current pricy transfer market. Bellerin is a very promising defender and is of course still very young. £42 million would be a valuable investment for any club, but what strikes me is the fact that such a price tag suggests Arsenal’s intentions to price the player out of the market, rather than actually look to move the player on.
Bellerin signed a new contract earlier in the campaign and it was rumoured to be a long term deal of around 5 years. His wage has consistently risen with the level of performance and so Arsenal have nothing to worry about when it comes to finances. The Gunners however will have to remain strong to hold off Barca’s interest, but I do remain certain that Bellerin has intentions to stay at the Emirates.
By AH