Reports: Juventus to make £51m January move for Premier League defender
What's the story?
Juventus have been enjoying a spell of dominance in the Italian league that stretches back to 2011, and could win their seventh consecutive title this season. However, the Old Lady of Turin hasn't had things her way so far, as Serie A fans have been treated to one of the most open title races in recent history.
Juventus are far from being out of the fight, and the defending champions are currently in second place, one point behind league-leaders Napoli. Nonetheless, conspicuous frailties have been exposed in Juventus' backline this season, which the Italian club appear keen to address.
Reports have emerged that Juventus will attempt to sign Hector Bellerin in January to stiffen up their defence, and they are thought to have already held talks with the defender's representatives.
In case you didn't know...
Hector Bellerin began his career at Barcelona's academy, before moving to Arsenal in 2011. Bellerin spent two years as a youth player, and he signed his first professional contract in July 2013. A brief loan spell at Watford preceded the young Spaniard's fortuitous ascension to first-team football.
Injuries to Nacho Monreal, Mathieu Debuchy and Calum Chambers paved the way for Hector Bellerin, and he quickly became Wenger's first choice at right-back. Bellerin has gone on to win two FA Cups and two Community Shields with the Gunners, and is now considered to be one of the most highly-rated full-backs in the Premier League.
The heart of the matter
Juventus have gained a reputation in Italy for being extremely water-tight, and have had the best defence in the league for six straight years. However, they have struggled to shut out their opposition this season, and have kept only 5 clean sheets in 12 Serie A matches, conceding 11 goals.
Hector Bellerin would make a good replacement for the ageing Stephan Lichtsteiner on the right side of Juventus' defence, and would help them to shore up a leaky defence. His pace and acceleration also make him an important attacking asset.
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Author's Take
Hector Bellerin has become a first-team regular at Arsenal, and Arsenal face the probability of losing several key players like Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez in the upcoming months.
He probably won't come cheap either, and Juventus will have to make an enticing deal for Arsenal to even consider the offer. However, the Italian champions may be encouraged by the fact that Bellerin came close to signing for Barcelona in the summer transfer window, and might just leave if a worthy offer is made.