AS Roma are interested in signing Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin, as Jose Mourinho eyes important transfers in the summer.
According to Calciomercato, Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin has emerged on AS Roma’s radar for a summer transfer as Jose Mourinho eyes important reinforcements.
AS Roma are high on confidence after their triumphant UEFA Europa Conference League campaign, beating Feyenoord in the final. The Serie A club would like to build on this success and have a solid transfer window ahead of the next season.
Roma have done considerably well in Jose Mourinho’s first season, as they have qualified for the Europa League by winning the Conference League and via their league position. The Italian capital club finished sixth, despite showing terrific form in patches during the campaign.
Mourinho is keen to bolster his squad in the window and sign some necessary players to push for a Champions League spot next season. One area that needs strengthening is right-back, with the Portuguese manager having had to rely heavily on Rick Karsdorp during the entire campaign.
While Karsdorp is a reliable performer defensively, the right-back does not offer any attacking potency in the final third. A new player with offensive attributes may be required, and Mourinho wants to increase competition in the position next season.
Hence, Hector Bellerin has emerged as a potential target, with Mourinho feeling the Arsenal star could solve the problems on the right flank. The right-back had a decent season on loan to Real Betis and proved his overall fitness. The Gunners star has been a different player since suffering an ACL injury a few years ago, but this term, he showed flashes of his usual self.
Bellerin does not want to play for Arsenal again and would be keen on signing for Betis permanently. However, a move will depend upon Arsenal’s final asking price, which will allow the Andalusian side to make a decision. He has been good for them but only started 22 of his 32 La Liga appearances.
Bellerin did help the club win the Copa del Rey this season, and his form led to links with Barcelona. While the Catalans have no interest in signing Bellerin, the right-back could have plenty of offers coming in. While it’s unclear whether Betis will sign him permanently, Roma’s offer could become a tempting prospect.
Mourinho has seen Bellerin in action when the Portuguese managed in the Premier League. The right-back has played in over 230 games for the Gunners but may never feature for the club again. However, a move to the Italian capital will depend upon Arsenal’s final asking price for the player with a year left on his contract.
