According to Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport, Italian giants AS Roma have set their sights on a move for Barcelona defender Hector Bellerin in the upcoming January transfer window.
The 27-year-old arrived at Barça only this past summer, joining on a free transfer after Arsenal terminated his contract. However, things have not gone according to plans for the Spaniard back at his boyhood club.
Indeed, Bellerin has had some fitness issues this term while he has flattered to deceive when fit and available as well. So much so that, manager Xavi Hernandez has preferred left-back Alejandro Balde over Bellerin in the right-back position on many occasions this term.
The former Arsenal man signed only a one-year contract with Barça when he signed in the summer and as things stand, he will not be given an extension. Furthermore, Xavi & co. are already looking for a new right-back in the January window, which could spell and end to Bellerin’s time.
And, Roma are ready to provide an escape route to the 27-year-old Spanish right-back. Jose Mourinho is on the lookout for a new player in the position following his fallout with Rick Karsdorp, who the Portuguese tactician wants to sell in January.
And Bellerin has emerged as the preferred target for the Giallorossi boss to replace Karsdorp, having watched the defender from close quarters during their time in the Premier League.
Barcelona, for their part, would be open to selling Bellerin as they are still battling Financial Fair Play issues and would welcome sales so that they can generate revenue and free up space on the wage bill.
Bellerin, though, had recently insisted that he wanted to stay at Camp Nou and possibly even renew his contract if there was a possibility. However, the chances of that happening look extremely slim now. Thus, a move to Rome could work out well for all parties involved.