Atletico Madrid step up interest in Arsenal wantaway defender Hector Bellerin | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid have joined the race to snap up wantaway Arsenal full-back Hector Bellerin, per Spanish news outlet Eldesmarque.

According to the report, Diego Simeone’s men have made contact with the Gunners and are set to rival Real Betis for his signature.

After falling down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium, Bellerin was shipped out on a season-long loan to Real Betis, where he produced a string of scintillating performances.

The Spaniard registered five assists in 32 outings across all competitions, helping Los Verdiblancos secure an impressive fifth-place finish in the La Liga and their first Copa del Rey title since 2005.

Bellerin has now revealed his desire to call time on his 11-year stint with the Gunners and is reportedly willing to waive the final year of his contract as he eyes an exit.

A permanent return to Spain is reportedly his preferred destination, but Arsenal have refused to cancel his contract as they hold out for a fee.

Betis, who are keen on tying down the 27-year-old on a permanent deal, are reluctant to meet Arsenal’s £8.5 million price tag due to financial reasons.

Atletico have now identified Bellerin as a potential summer target and opened talks with both his agent and the north Londoners over a deal.

The 2020-21 La Liga champions are keen on revamping their options at right-back following the departure of Kieran Trippier to Newcastle United back in January.

The Wanda Metropolitano outfit have been linked with the likes of Emerson Royal and Pablo Maffeo, but it appears Bellerin is high on the club’s wish list.

He has made 238 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions, scoring nine goals and providing 28 assists.