Arsene Wenger: Hector Bellerin "close" to new deal

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that the club are "close" to agreeing a new deal with right-back Hector Bellerin.

The 21-year-old has established himself as a key part of the Gunners' defence in recent seasons and despite having three years left on his current contract, his form has led to keen interest from big-spending Manchester City and Barcelona.

Bellerin has been in negotiations over improved terms for some time and is now close to finalising a deal that will see him earn a significant pay rise on his current £50,000-a-week salary.

"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," Wenger told reporters.

"And we are not far. It will be great. Let's say 'it is great' when it is done."

Bellerin is currently sidelined for four weeks with an ankle injury.