Arsenal loaned Hector Bellerin out to Real Betis, just as Edu was looking raid the La Liga club for midfielder Guido Rodriguez.
It became clear that Arsenal and Bellerin had to go their separate ways.
Bellerin wasn’t able to get back to his best after a major knee injury, and was a shadow of his former self.
With Takehiro Tomiyasu arriving, Arsenal allowed Bellerin to leave on loan for a return to Spain with Real Betis.
So far, Bellerin has impressed in Spain, even dazzling Arsenal fans.
Bellerin has told El Desmarque that he doesn’t see himself returning to Arsenal. His loan with Betis doesn’t have a permanent option, but there may be scope for such a deal next summer.
Arsenal may be open to taking cash for Bellerin, but if Betis love him, Arsenal could attempt an exchange.
Estadio Deportivo noted over the summer that Arsenal want to sign Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez.
The Argentinian has an €80million (£68million) release clause in his contract, which would be a huge fee to pay.
Combative and superb at protecting his defence, Rodriguez is an outstanding player but Arsenal surely wouldn’t pay that kind of fee.
Arsenal may struggle to get Betis to lower that price given his importance to the team, but using Bellerin as a makeweight could really help.
Rodriguez would give Arsenal another strong midfield player to challenge Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka, offering much more quality than Mohamed Elneny.
Rodriguez, much like Bellerin, has been outstanding this season. Signing him won’t be easy, but Edu may well have a chance to offer up Bellerin in an effort to drive down the Rodriguez price.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
