Arsenal to begin contract renewal talks with Hector Bellerin amid Barcelona interest

Arsenal will begin contract extension talks with Hector Bellerin after the international break, according to reports.

The Daily Mirror says the Gunners have sounded out Bellerin's representatives and are keen to offer the defender a new five-year contract to discourage interest from other clubs.

Barcelona are reported to be interested in re-signing Bellerin, who started his career in the youth team of the Catalan giants.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is also understood to be an admirer of the 21-year-old right-back.

Bellerin has started all seven of Arsenal's Premier League games this season. He has three years left on his contract at the Emirates Stadium.

Barcelona boss Luis Enrique appeared to play down the Catalan club's interest in Bellerin last month, claiming that Sergi Roberto was the best right-back for his team.

"I watch a lot of games and I don't see any better right-back than Sergio Roberto," he was quoted as saying by Sport.

"At least for Barcelona, who always have the ball. I'm delighted that he feels good in that position, although he can play in the midfield roles, too. He's capable of beating a man [and] passing with quality."

The Gunners are also keen to tie down Mesul Ozil and Alexis Sanchez to new deals, as both players only have two years left on their contracts.

German daily Bild claimed last week that Ozil will only commit his future to Arsenal if the club makes marquee signings in future transfer windows.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger strengthened his squad by signing the likes of Granit Xhaka, Shkodran Mustafi, Lucas Perez and Rob Holding in the summer, while Jack Wilshere and Calum Chambers were allowed to leave the Emirates Stadium on loan.

The north London club have won their last five matches in all competitions after an uncertain start to the season, which included a 4-3 home defeat against Liverpool and a goalless draw with Leicester City.