Arsenal finishing out of the top four for the first time in two decades means every other player would now be linked with a move out of Emirates Stadium. With Alexis Sanchez’s situation being pretty much stagnant for the past few weeks, the steam has now started blowing towards their new starlet Hector Bellerin.
The Barcelona academy product had moved to Arsenal at the age of 16. And it was Arsene Wenger, who has nurtured him into a potential star now. After breaking into the first-team with some of his speedy ball recoveries and the sudden jolt of pace on the counter attacks, he was a fan favourite in no time. However, the last season didn’t go very well that also saw him benched wth Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain replacing him on the right defensive flank.
Reportedly, Barcelona new boss Ernesto Valverde has kept him as a top priority this summer and the La Liga giants are initiating a bid for him. Bellerin is contracted to the club since 2023, which makes the deal highly improbable, but the fact that his family is moving back to Spain now, he might have a slight consideration of moving back to his hometown.
Although a possibility of any deal happening is far-fetched, Arsenal’s previous reputation of selling off their best players still keeps Barcelona interested in this deal. In such a scenario arising, here are 3 options, Arsenal can opt for to replace him-
Djibril Sidibe- Yet another AS Monaco player, who is hogging all the limelight following their phenomenal season in France as well as in Europe. The 24-year-old could be an ideal addition to the Arsenal squad, who has just shifted their formation to a three men defence. They need wing-backs more than ever now and Sidibe could be just the man Arsenal need. The French international is fast, aggressive and most all can provide the most brilliant of crosses.
Cedric Soares- An emerging sensation in European football, the Portuguese full-back has been one of Southampton’s best player last season. He has the composure, pace and passing ability needed in a wide forward and his intelligent game reading makes him a tremendous defender as well. Although his style of play doesn’t include outmuscling his opponents, he is a far better option in that role.
Kyle Walker- Considered as Premier League’s best right-back at the moment, the Tottenham man is definitely the one to look out for this summer. While Manchester City is most likely to win the race to land him, Bellerin’s selling price could be enough to lure him. Walker is by far the most perfect to take the role of a wing-back or a full-back. His speed on the flanks and superior technique makes him a brilliant option.
