Arsenal are interested in signing PSV full-back Denzel Dumfries, according to reliable journalist Kike Marin, but could that interest spell the end for Hector Bellerin?
The Spanish reporter claims that the 23-year old is high on Arsenal’s summer wish-list, with Mikel Arteta keen to strengthen his backline in the close season.
Dumfries has been a regular star for PSV in the Dutch Eredivisie this season, scoring an incredible seven goals in 25 league games, playing every game as the club’s first choice right-back.
With uncertainty over Bellerin’s long-term viability as Arsenal’s first choice right-sided full-back, Arteta is ramping up interest in his replacement, and Marin believes Dumfries is that man.
Despite being well regarded at Arsenal, Bellerin has failed to really make any significant progress over the past few seasons, primarily due to his horrific injury record that his seen him start just seven Premier League games this season.
With Dumfries having emerged as an option ahead of next season, questions will now be asked concerning whether Bellerin could see his Arsenal tenure come to an end following the end of the season.
Bellerin still has three years to run on his current contract at the Emirates Stadium, but unless he can maintain his fitness and build up a series of appearances for the Gunners, it appears difficult to imagine him fulfilling the duration of his current deal.
The Spaniard could still operate as a solid back-up option even if Dumfries is signed, and I would be inclined to guess that the 24-year won’t be hounded out of Arsenal any time soon, although he will need to buck up his performance levels when given the opportunity to impress if he is to remain in Arteta’s plans.
