Arsene Wenger has insisted that defender Hector Bellerin’s long term future is at Arsenal and has squashed speculation of the Spaniard returning to Barcelona.

Arsenal snapped up the defender from Barcelona’s academy in 2011 and the 21-year-old has progressed rapidly though the ranks at the north London outfit to become a regular feature in Wenger’s team.




Despite his rapid progress at Arsenal, there has always been speculation that the Spaniard could eventually return to Barcelona at some point in the near future and there have been fresh rumours that Bellerin is waiting for the Catalan giants to come calling.

However, the Arsenal boss admits that the club will try and extend the Spaniard’s contract and is confident that Bellerin’s future is at the Emirates Stadium.
 


On whether he thinks Bellerin’s future is at Arsenal, Wenger said in a press conference: “Yes of course, and that’s why I am surprised by the speculation.  

relatedNewsStory

“He has nearly three years to go and we will try to extend his contract in the future, but for me his long term future is here.”

When asked about the constant talk of the Spaniard returning to Barcelona, the Frenchman said: “I don’t think its necessary he has to play where he was born.

“He is at a team that meets his needs and values. He came at a very young age. He is an Arsenal player.”

Bellerin has made 82 senior appearances for the Gunners and has continued to remain an integral member of the starting eleven this season.