Fiorentina join race for Arsenal outcast Hector Bellerin despite obstacle in second deal

Fiorentina have reportedly made an enquiry about their chances of signing Hector Bellerin from Arsenal, according to reports.

Bellerin is unlikely to have a future at Arsenal after spending the 2021-22 season on loan with Real Betis. He will be in the final year of his contract with his parent club when he returns. They have relied on Takehiro Tomiyasu and Cedric Soares in his position this season.

Therefore, Arsenal are likely to take their chance to cash in on Bellerin. Real Betis would like to have him permanently, but may not be able to afford the deal.

It was recently reported that Roma are interested in taking Bellerin to Serie A, coincidentally as a replacement for another Arsenal loanee, Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

Yet another Italian suitor have come forward in the shape of Fiorentina, according to journalist Matteo Moretto.

In fact, La Viola have supposedly asked for information about the full-back, whose priority would remain a return to Real Betis.

But if that is not possible, Fiorentina could give him something to consider. They have qualified for the Europa Conference League for next season.

However, Roma are one step above, having reached the Europa League (just like Betis). And the original report linking them to Bellerin suggested Champions League duo Juventus and Inter Milan could also be keen on the Spaniard.

Hector Bellerin wants permanent Real Betis move from Arsenal

Arsenal right back Hector Bellerin wants to make his loan move to Real Betis permanent

Therefore, Italy is looking to be a likely destination for the 27-year-old, who earns a salary of €4m per season (about £65,500 per week).

If he is to join Fiorentina, he would be competing for a place with Alvaro Odriozola and Lorenzo Venuti. It remains to be seen if they could make it a double transfer with Lucas Torreira – who was on loan in Florence this season – as well.

Bellerin can aim higher

There was a time when Bellerin was a regular, dependable player for Arsenal. He represented them in more than 200 matches and has Champions League experience.

This season with Betis, he was back at Europa League level. A move to Fiorentina would see him drop down a further level in terms of European competition.

At the age of 27, he should still be able to compete in the Champions League if he wants. If not, he is more than good enough to play for a Europa League-level team.

Fiorentina have made major progress over the past 12 months and are aiming to get there. Bellerin’s experience and quality would help them make further strides.

However, an even more competitive club could benefit from his talents too.

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