Cheaper alternative emerges for Arsenal as bargain €10m signing touted

Devyne Rensch, Edson Alvarez, Noussair Mazraoui Ajax TEAMtalk

Arsenal could replace Hector Bellerin with Ajax full-back Noussair Mazraoui this summer, according to reports.

Bellerin is one of Arsenal’s longest-serving players, but there are doubts over whether he will stay. Some have advised him to seek a new challenge elsewhere after the club missed out on European qualification. If he does leave, then the Gunners will have to find an adequate replacement.

There have already been rumours about who could fill the void. Lille’s Zeki Celik would be one option, for example.

But a cheaper alternative, according to Estadio Deportivo, could be Mazraoui.

The report from the Spanish outlet covers Real Betis’ interest in Bellerin. Betis have just lost Emerson Royal to Barcelona as expected, so need to reinforce at right-back and could lure the Arsenal man to his native country.

They would have to make an effort to convince both Bellerin and Arsenal since they finished sixth in La Liga. The formula of the deal may not be to Arsenal’s preference, as the Gunners would want to raise as much money as possible, whereas the Seville-based club may prefer a loan at first.

But if they can find an agreement, then Arsenal are already looking towards Mazraoui as a replacement, it is claimed.

Noussair Mazraoui Ajax warming up TEAMtalk

The 23-year-old has come through the academy ranks at Ajax, but only made 16 starts in the 2020-21 Eredivisie. On a team level, though, he ended the season celebrating, as Ajax won the league and cup double.

He may be approaching the end of his journey with the club, though. Mazraoui’s contract expires in 2022, so they might cash in now if they cannot agree an extension.

Estadio Deportivo claim that Mazraoui could be available for as little as €10m, which is a lower reflection of his true worth. Hence, it could be a bargain investment for Arsenal if that’s the route they choose to pursue.


Subscribe for free to TEAMtalk’s daily newsletter…


Arsenal submit midfielder bid

Replacing Bellerin is not the only piece of business Arsenal will have to conduct this summer. After losing Martin Odegaard and Dani Ceballos after their loans from Real Madrid, they need more creativity in midfield.

They already have a clear idea of one potential target and according to The Sun have now made a bid.

Arsenal are rivalling Aston Villa for their target but will hope to win the battle – if they can raise their offer.

READ MOREArsenal submit £30m bid to land top Arteta target but are £10m short