Arsenal Transfer News: Latest on Hector Bellerin Exit, Juventus Rumours

Juventus are reportedly in "advanced talks" with Arsenal to sign full-back Hector Bellerin, with the Gunners said to be looking for a fee in the vicinity of £44 million.

According to Cadena Ser (h/t Metro), Manchester United are also interested in the Spaniard, but the Bianconeri are favourites for his signature at this point.

Sportscaster Bolarinwa Olajide noted recent reports have linked former club Barcelona with a move as well:

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Barcelona are reported to be ready to offer Ousmane Dembele to Arsenal in a swap deal to secure the signing of Hector Bellerin this summer.

— Bolarinwa Olajide (@iambolar) April 27, 2018"

According to the report, Juventus were interested in Bellerin last summer, when they signed Mattia De Sciglio as depth at the full-back position.

They are still looking for a high-upside option on the right side of the pitch after selling Pol Lirola to Sassuolo in January―although the club has a buy-back option, per Gianluca Di Marzio.

Bellerin has endured an inconsistent campaign for Arsenal, who could be in for a lean summer if they fail to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. According to Cadena Ser, the transfer budget will be limited to just £50 million if the Gunners don't qualify for Europe's top club competition.

James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images

If that's the case, sales seem likely, and Bellerin could be one of their most valuable pieces. At 23 years old, the Spain international is a high-upside player who hasn't developed as intended in the last few years but is still a special talent.

He's also been a crucial piece of the puzzle for Arsene Wenger, per football writer James McNicholas:

With 32 Premier League starts, Bellerin is easily the club's top choice at right-back, so he's unlikely to be sold on the cheap. There have been rumours the player is keen to leave, however, and that could complicate matters, per Sport (h/t Sport Witness).

Bellerin has fallen behind several compatriots in the national-team pecking order, and at this point in time, he might not even make the squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. A change of scenery may be what he needs to get back on track, which could lead to transfer demands this summer.

The reported asking price of £44 million would be light for an automatic starter, however, and it's hard to see the Gunners parting with Bellerin for such a minimal fee―even if he pushes for the move.

Juventus don't usually spend such big sums on their defence but will highlight the right-back position as a key area this summer. Lirola could be an option if Bellerin proves too expensive, although he still has lots of developing to do.