Barcelona give up on pursuit of Bellerin

Barcelona have given up hope of signing Hector Bellerin from Arsenal, according to reports in Spain.

Spanish sports newspaper Mundo Deportivo are reporting that Barcelona have given up on their pursuit of Arsenal right-back Hector Bellerin.

It has been rumoured for some time that the Spanish champions will make a move to bring Bellerin back to the club he left as a teenager, and following the departure of legendary full-back Dani Alves this summer – the Brazilian joined Juventus on a free transfer – the speculation intensified.

But Barça elected not to sign a replacement for Alves this summer, and have instead given La Masia product Sergi Roberto the chance to stake his claim for the position long term, and the Spanish international have impressed in the role, despite being a midfielder by trade.

The emergence of Sergi Roberto as a viable replacement for Alves, coupled with the likely heft price tag that the Gunners would place on Bellerin, has contributed to the Blaugrana electing not to pursue a potential deal for the Arsenal man.

Bellerin was outstanding form Arsenal last season, as his defensive awareness improved and his pace and crossing ability proved to be a vital cog in Arsenal’s attacking weaponry. And his performances did not go unnoticed, as the 21-year-old was selected in the Premier League team of the season.