Real Betis considering move for Barcelona defender to replace departing Spaniard

Real Betis are facing a precarious situation at the moment. Their star fullback Alex Moreno has reportedly reached the final stage of his negotiations with Aston Villa and the defender was subsequently left out of the squad for the Spanish Super Cup game against Barcelona.

With Moreno’s move to Villa Park almost imminent, Real Betis have turned to the market to find immediate replacements. According to Mundo Deportivo, one of the options considered by the club is Hector Bellerin.

Bellerin is a loved figure at Real Betis, as the player’s father was a lifelong supporter, which itself played a key role in convincing him to join Los Beticos on a loan deal last season. He did not disappoint either, producing a series of hard-working displays.

The report suggests Betis are looking at a series of options, including former Barcelona starlet Sergio Akiene, along with AS Roma’s rising superstar Matias Vina. They are looking Fran Garcia of Rayo Vallecano, in their bid to find a direct replacement for Moreno.

However, Betis are open to bringing back Bellerin, whose successful loan spell at the club, coupled with his experience makes him an appealing target.

Although Bellerin is a right-back, Betis, should they succeed in bringing the Spaniard back to Benito Villamarin, are likely to push Youssouf Sabaly to the left, with the Barcelona star operating in his usual right-back slot.

But it is worth noting that Bellerin’s salary could be an issue for Real Betis unless the player accepts a significant cut. In addition, it remains to be seen whether Barcelona are open to offloading the Spaniard in January, knowing they do not have a variety of options in the position.

Even Sergi Roberto is facing an uncertain future at the club, although the veteran Spaniard is guaranteed to remain at Camp Nou until the end of the season.