Hector Bellerin close to agreeing Arsenal extension, agent confirms

Arsenal have been handed a major boost after Hector Bellerin's agent confirmed that the defender is likely to snub interest in Barcelona and Manchester City and sign a new contract with the Gunners. The Spaniard has become a mainstay in the starting XI since breaking into the first-team during the 2014/15 campaign and despite holding a contract until 2019, the club are keen offer him an extension and an increase in wages to keep away interested suitors.

The 21-year-old made 44 appearances in his first full season with the senior squad and despite Arsenal not winning any silverware last season, his impressive performances saw him named at right-back in the PFA team of the year. This peaked interest from other club's mainly his former employers Barcelona.

The Catalan giants are looking for a replacement for Dani Alves and have publicly declared their interest for the Spain international. The Etihad Stadium outfit now managed by Pep Guardiola were also credited with interest recently, but Bellerin made it clear in a recent interview that he is happy in north London, and despite stating that he is no rush to extend his deal, he is said to be close to agreeing a new and improved contract expected to keep him at the club at least until 2021.

"We are speaking and are now a lot closer than we were two weeks ago. In a normal situation he will sign," Bellrin's agent Albert Botines told the Guardian.

"Héctor is very happy at Arsenal. This would be the fourth time he has signed a new contract at the club and it is clear he has made good progress," the Spaniard's representative added.

Bellerin has made a strong start yet again this season and has played every minute of every Premier League thus far. The Arsenal right-back is currently away on international duty with the Spain U21 squad, who face a play-off game against Austria to ensure they qualify for the European Championships next summer.