The Arsenal right-back is being courted extensively by Barcelona and Manchester City.
In a major relief for the Gunners, 21-year-old Hector Bellerin has categorically dismissed all the links for a transfer back to Barcelona by stating he would refuse any advances made by his former club to sign him.
Bellerin has been the subject of much speculation. Pep Guardiola is reportedly a big admirer of the young full-back while Barcelona are willing to pay as much as €35 million (or even more) to bring him back to the club.
However, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has continued to reiterate Hector’s long term future lies with the North London club, claiming to be surprised by all the speculations regarding the right-back. The manager also revealed talks are ongoing for a new improved contract for Hector Bellerin that would put an end to all the rumors.
Speaking to the press conference ahead of their Swansea game, Wenger had said, “Hector has nearly three years to go, but we always try to get the players to the level where they deserve to be, so we’ll try to extend his contract as well. His long-term future is here. What is important is that a player meets his needs where he is, and his values. I think he loves to be here, and he has responsibilities already in the dressing room.”
And now, Bellerin has echoed his manager’s words about his future by suggesting he’s staying put with the club.
Speaking candidly to DW Channel where he talks on a wide range of topics, Hector was asked how he would respond if Barcelona came calling for him. His reply was short, blunt and to the point, “If Barcelona contact me? I won’t pick up the phone.”
Since making his debut at the age of 18 for the Gunners, Bellerin has developed into a quick yet dependable modern full-back in a very short span of time. Such has been his progress that he was named third in Arsenal’s Player of season in 2015/16 and has made another fine start to this season. His pace and on-the-ball abilities have become quite well known; no wonder the top clubs want to acquire the services of the right-back. However, it does seem likely he will pen a new contract with Arsenal soon, which would probably be the most wise decision.