Barcelona agree deal to sign Hector Bellerin from Arsenal

Hector Bellerin has officially joined Barcelona after reaching a contract termination deal with Arsenal.

After joining the Gunners in 2011 from Barca’s development systems, the 27-year-old went on to graduate from the Arsenal academy and establish himself as a fixture in the first-team lineup.

Bellerin, who was a member of the PFA Team of the Year for the 2015–16 campaign and three-time FA Cup champion with Arsenal, eventually lost favor under Mikel Arteta.

He spent the season on loan with Real Betis, where he appeared in 23 LaLiga games and assisted Manuel Pellegrini’s squad in winning the Copa del Rey.

Sassuolo wanted to bring Bellerin to Italy, while Betis wanted to permanently sign him but were unable to do so because of his wage demands.

Barca, who did something similar to acquire Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in January, have finalized the acquisition on a free transfer after Arsenal agreed to cancel his contract, which had one year remaining.

READ ALSO: LaLiga: It’s a blessing to have Lewandowski, he is a natural leader – Xavi

LaLiga: I Want To Make, Write History At Barcelona – Lewandowski

Bellerin joins the list of recent additions to Xavi’s busy Barcelona transfer window, which has seen the club sign players like Robert Lewandowski, Jules Kounde, and Raphinha, with Chelsea full-back Marcos Alonso also on the way.

“We bid farewell to Hector and we appreciate him so much for his loyalty and commitment to Arsenal Football Club,” Arteta said on the club’s official website.

Hector made a significant contribution to the club during his eleven years with Arsenal, winning three FA Cups and playing in close to 250 games.

“I consider it a privilege to have spent three seasons with Hector in the same team, donning the Arsenal jersey and enjoying many memorable experiences both on and off the field of play.

We appreciate your help, Hector, and we wish you a safe trip back to Barcelona with your family.

Please kindly share this store