Emerson Royal is Arsenal’s perfect Hector Bellerin replacement

PAMPLONA, SPAIN - DECEMBER 06: Emerson Royal of Real Betis Balompie reacts during the La Liga Santander match between C.A. Osasuna and Real Betis at Estadio El Sadar on December 06, 2020 in Pamplona, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
PAMPLONA, SPAIN - DECEMBER 06: Emerson Royal of Real Betis Balompie reacts during the La Liga Santander match between C.A. Osasuna and Real Betis at Estadio El Sadar on December 06, 2020 in Pamplona, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
1 of 3
Next
Arsenal, Emerson Royal
Arsenal identify Emerson Royal as perfect Hector Bellerin replacement – tactical insight shows why he fits in Mikel Arteta’s plan. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) /

Arsenal have identified Emerson Royal as Hector Bellerin’s replacement, seeing him as the ideal player to come in and perform the tactical role Mikel Arteta wants.

The future of Hector Bellerin had been the source of endless speculation way before the current campaign, with links to clubs across Europe having become one of the routine segments of the winter and summer periods in north London.

Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus and Barcelona have been the usual suspects when it comes to potential destinations for the Spaniard, with the former once again leading the chase as the talk heats up.

It was revealed back in February that Bellerin was keen on a change of scenery at the end of the season, having come close to departing the club during the previous summer. While the 25-year-old holds the club close to his heart, he feels that a new challenge at this stage of his career suits.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

Arsenal identify Emerson Royal as perfect Hector Bellerin replacement – tactical insight shows why he fits

Supporters are mostly in agreement. Bellerin’s performances have dipped this season after a solid spell, and the decision to omit him from the squad to face West Ham in the most recent Premier League outing, despite not carrying an injury, only intensifies the likelihood of a transfer.

With two years left to run on his deal come that time, Arsenal have the chance to cash in on one of the few valuable assets they have in the squad, and Bellerin has the opportunity to seek pastures new at a good age.

In such an eventuality, a replacement is being sounded out with Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey among those sitting highest on the club’s list.

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, another target has been identified in the form of Real Betis’ Emerson Royal. The Brazilian only joined Manuel Pellegrini’s side in February 2019 from Atlético Mineiro but has emerged as one of the most exciting right-backs in the division.

The move constitutes an presentable one for the Gunners, even if the circumstances of his future situation is unusual.