Arsenal Transfer News: Hector Bellerin Comments on Barcelona Return Rumours

Arsenal full-back Hector Bellerin has dismissed speculation linking him with a possible return to Barcelona.

The Spain international has excelled at the Emirates Stadium since his integration into the first team, quickly growing into one of the very best attacking full-backs in European football.

His growth has triggered talk of a return to the Camp Nou, although speaking to Tony Evans of the Evening Standard, Bellerin was adamant his long-term future will be with the Gunners.

"If I wanted to play there I would have stayed there," he said of Barcelona. "I was very happy when Arsenal showed interest in me and I decided to come here. I'm not looking back, I'm just looking to help Arsenal."

As noted by Evans, as well as the Liga side, Manchester City are also said to be interested in the defender.

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The links to the Blaugrana seem more significant given Bellerin's past, though. As a youngster, he learned his footballing craft at the La Masia academy, with traits associated with Barcelona evident in his game. 

Per the UEFA Champions League Twitter feed, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger recently praised the mental strength of the right-back, too:

The Camp Nou outfit remain one of the biggest sides in world football, challenging for the most prestigious honours in the game. That'd be appealing for any player and especially one who was born in the Catalan city. However, Arsenal have offered the youngster a chance of first-team football, and he's keen to reward that faith.

The Spain star said: 

"

It's nice for a player to know that big teams want you but I'm very happy here. I've still got three years left on my contract so I'm just focused on playing every single week, improving and hopefully making things happen here at Arsenal. I'm not in a rush to extend the contract. I'm happy. I'm comfortable. I want to be here a long time.

"

That will be a boost to Arsenal supporters everywhere, as Bellerin is potentially a building block for a very bright future.

Per WhoScored.com, he's one of the most penetrative players in the Premier League:

Barcelona could potentially pursue a right-back in the upcoming transfer windows. While Sergi Roberto has been doing an exceptional job in the position, his preferred role is in central midfield. The natural deputy to him would be Aleix Vidal, although he's yet to totally convince in Blaugrana colours.

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Bellerin would tick a lot of boxes for Barca. Having a full-back who hugs the touchline and provides a major attacking threat is key to their stylistic blueprint. Those are areas in which the Arsenal man excels, along with technical proficiency and composure on the ball you'd expect from any La Masia graduate.

Players like Gerard Pique and Cesc Fabregas are examples of academy prospects who returned to Barca after a stint away, illustrating the club's longstanding lure. While Bellerin is contented at the moment, the Gunners will need to show they can compete at the top level to keep him at the club for many years to come.