Arsenal: 5 transfers that need to be successful

4. Hector Bellerin – Real Betis

Deal: Simple loan
Contract expiry: 2023

Having known about his desire to leave since the beginning of last season and then made clear once more in January, that it took until deadline day for Arsenal to secure a move that all parties wanted is extremely disappointing.

How did that come about? From what was mentioned across the summer, Arsenal set out their stall too high to begin with. Rebuffing all approaches that weren’t permanent deals, they then lowered their terms to loan deals with obligation, then loan deals with an option to buy and eventually got Hector Bellerin off the books on a simple loan.

While Betis have no purchase clause in the deal, Marca state that the Spaniard ‘has it in his power’ to extend his stay beyond the current campaign having parted with such a significant amount money to facilitate the move. Why his reduced salary means he he has the power to stay longer is anyone’s guess.

However, with just one year remaining on his deal when he returns, a fruitful campaign as the starting right-back is precisely what he and Arsenal need in order to cut ties amicably for both parties.

At least he’s going to play every week.