Spanish defender Hector Bellerin close to agreeing new long-term deal with Arsenal

Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin is reportedly on the verge of agreeing a new and improved long-term deal after a breakthrough year for the Gunners during the 2014/15 campaign, according to the Daily Mail.

The young Spanish defender, who was included in the first-team squad by Arsene Wenger, was thrust into the limelight following an injury to first-choice right-back Mathieu Debuchy.

Despite a tough start, Bellerin did not squander his chance and proved that he was ready to perform at the highest level with some composed performances in the Premier League and Champions League.

The 20-year-old defender, who still has two years remaining on his current deal, made 30 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals and providing as many assists during his debut season with the Arsenal first-team.

Bellerin, who joined the north London club from the famed La Masia academy run by Catalan giants Barcelona in 2011, has expressed his delight over a successful first season with the first-team and believes it is a great achievement to have established a place in the senior squad.

The Spanish U21 international is ready to compete for his place with a fit-again Debuchy, as he believes that competition for places will make him push harder and improve his game.

"Last year was crazy for me. It was a beautiful year. I've played 30 games with the first team and I don't consider myself one of the main players. But to be a regular in the first has been a great achievement. I am really happy and proud," Bellerin is quoted as saying by the Daily Mail.

"Competition between players is always good. If you don't have competition you relax and never improve. The fact we have three or four players who can play at right-back makes it better. It's down to the boss," the Spanish right-back added.