Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Arsenal’s marauding Spaniard Hector Bellerin, according to Goal Spain.
Bellerin found himself returning to his native Spain last season as he enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at Real Betis.
His stint there culminated in him assisting a crucial goal in the Copa del Rey final against Valencia, a cup Los Verdiblancos went on to win on penalties.
Advert
The 27-year-old’s fine form with the La Liga club has led to Madrid giants Atletico desiring his services.
However, any potential move to Madrid appears difficult for Simeone’s side, as Bellerin’s 'great desire is to return to Betis after his loan', according to reports.
Any possibility of Bellerin remaining at Arsenal remains minimal at this stage, especially with the high performance levels of Takehiro Tomiyasu, and the faith Arteta appears to have in Cedric as his understudy.
When you further consider the returning William Saliba alongside Ben White, who can both fill in the right back role, the chances of Bellerin regularly featuring are next to none.
Advert
That being said, despite a departure likely, Bellerin has served as the embodiment of what’s achievable to any young player in Hale End.
Having come through the youth sides after joining from La Masia, the academy players will look to the Spaniard as an example of what talent and work-ethic can bring you.
Brooke Norton-Cuffy will be the latest Hale End full-back to look to the Spaniard as an inspiration and he will hope to follow his meteoric rise.
Advert
So, whilst Atletico are seeking to bring Bellerin to Madrid, Betis remain in pole position.
If this season is to be a permanent goodbye, then the Gunners faithful leave with good memories of a long-serving, committed Spaniard who bled Arsenal with every fibre of his being.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Arsenal, Hector Bellerin, Mikel Arteta, Transfers, Atletico Madrid