A recent report from Mundo Deportivo (h/t Diario AS) has offered a fresh update on Barcelona’s right-back situation.
It appears the club are strongly considering the exit of Sergino Dest. The American international has failed to impress coach Xavi Hernandez, often struggling to offer consistency and failing to live up to his expectations.
It has compelled Barcelona to rethink their position on Dest. And despite their lack of numbers in the right-back unit, the club could be open to sanctioning the sale of the former Ajax starlet for a fee of around €15-20 million.
However, in light of the lack of alternatives in the right-back position, the club remain on the hunt for potential options in the market.
The Catalans faced major disappointment in their pursuit of top target Cesar Azpilicueta earlier in the summer. But as per the report, the club have not given up their chase for a right-back just yet and are targeting Hector Bellerin ahead of the new season.
The Arsenal ace is coming on the back of a loan spell at Real Betis this past season. He is familiar with Barcelona’s system as well, having started his youth career at the club’s famed academy
However, what makes Bellerin such an appealing target for Barcelona is that he could be available on a free transfer.
Indeed, the Spaniard is reportedly in talks with Arsenal over earning a letter of freedom that could enable him to join any club on a free transfer. It has put Barcelona on red alert and if the two parties reach an agreement, the Catalans could snap him up ahead of the new season.
That said, the Blaugrana could face fierce competition from Real Betis, who are determined to re-sign the defender after a relatively successful loan spell last season.
