Bellerin close to Arsenal extension

Arsenal bossArsene Wenger has confirmed that Hector Bellerin is close to committing his long-term future to the club. The Spain international has established himself as the first-choice right-back at the Emirates in recent seasons.

Recent reports suggested that the 21-year-old would be extending his stay with the Gunners despite strong interest from Manchester City and former club Barcelona.

Wenger has now revealed that talks between the player and the club are at an advanced stage, and it is only a matter of time before Bellerin secures an improved contract.

"We are working on Bellerin's contract extension and an agreement seems to be close. We'll reveal the details at the end of negotiations," the Frenchman told reporters.

Bellerin is set to earn a 150 percent increase on his present salary which stands at around £50,000-a-week. He is currently nursing an ankle injury that will keep him out of action for the festive period.