HECTOR BELLERIN’S return to Barcelona has moved a step closer following Joan Laporta’s presidential win, according to reports.
Laporta was elected at the helm of the Catalan giants after taking the majority vote during Sunday’s election.
Hector Bellerin has moved a step closer to rejoining BarcelonaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The 58-year-old is back for his second spell as president following his seven-year reign from 2003.
Barcelona have been frequently linked with a move to bring Bellerin back to the Nou Camp over recent years.
And last week it was reported how Laporta had an agreement with the Gunners defender’s representatives to try to negotiate a fee with Arsenal to bring him back if he was handed the presidency.
Spaniard Bellerin, 25, is a graduate of Barca’s famous La Masia academy before switching to north London in 2011.
He remains under contract until 2023 but reports claim ‘he is open to rejoining his old club and returning to his home city’ in the summer.
Meanwhile Laporta could also be key in keeping Lionel Messi at the club.
The Argentine is out of contract in the summer and has refused to extend his deal after seeing his transfer request rejected last summer.
With the club in disarray both on and off the pitch, Laporta believes his appointment will bring stability among the ranks and convince Messi to commit his future with Barca.
FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE
Joan Laporta has won the presidential election at BarcelonaCredit: AP:Associated Press
He previously said: “I have a great relationship with Leo [Messi] and he will consider whatever proposal I make.
“If I don’t win, I am sure that Leo will not stay at Barcelona.
“Messi will weigh up the offer we make him.
“I’m convinced that if the other candidates win, Messi will not remain at Barcelona.
“He’s not guided just by money.
“He wants a competitive team to win.
“I’m sure he’ll listen to my offer, just as I am [sure] that if someone else wins he will leave.”
⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
Joan Laporta is congratulated by beaten candidates after being elected Barcelona president
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
