Hector Bellerin is only Barcelona’s second-choice right-back signing behind Juan Foyth, according to a report from Spain.

NUREMBERG, GERMANY: Hector Bellerin of Arsenal is challenged by Christoph Daferner and Johannes Geis of 1. FC Nuernberg during the pre-season friendly match between 1. FC Nürnberg and Arsenal F.C. at Max-Morlock-Stadion on July 08, 2022. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
NUREMBERG, GERMANY: Hector Bellerin of Arsenal is challenged by Christoph Daferner and Johannes Geis of 1. FC Nuernberg during the pre-season friendly match between 1. FC Nürnberg and Arsenal F.C. at Max-Morlock-Stadion on July 08, 2022. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Javier Miguel reports for AS that Barcelona’s priority right-back signing for the final week of the transfer window is Juan Foyth of Villarreal.

Hector Bellerin is their second choice alternative, and considered a much cheaper option – they want him for free.

Funnily enough, it doesn’t seem that Bellerin is primarily focusing on Barcelona either. Reports suggest his preferred destination remains a return to Real Betis, with Barcelona as an alternative.

Yet you wouldn’t rule out the defender returning to the club of his youth. Barcelona’s financial difficulties may see them opt for Bellerin on a free over Foyth for €20m, and Betis might have to pull out of the race over financial issues of their own.

At the very least, Udinese seem to be out of the picture. Di Marzio had reported interest from the Serie A side, but Estadio Deportivo then claimed Bellerin had rejected that avenue.

ESPN claim Bellerin’s future remains uncertain, with Arsenal talks over a potential contract termination ongoing, and his exit set to run close to deadline day.

Real Betis' Spanish defender Hector Bellerin runs on the pitch during the Spanish league football match between Real Betis and Granada FC at the Benito Villamarin stadium in Seville, on May 15, 2022. (Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER/AFP via Getty Images)
Real Betis’ Spanish defender Hector Bellerin runs on the pitch during the Spanish league football match between Real Betis and Granada FC at the Benito Villamarin stadium in Seville, on May 15, 2022. (Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER/AFP via Getty Images)

Bellerin spent last season on loan with Real Betis, making 32 appearances and helping them to win the Copa del Rey.

The 27-year-old hasn’t been involved in any of Mikel Arteta’s Premier League squads this campaign, and a move still seems the most likely option at this stage.