Arsene Wenger's strategy to keep Bellerin away from Barça
Barcelona will contact Arsenal this month to start talks over the full-back
The Gunners rejected a big offer from Man City last summer for the Catalan
Arsene Wenger praised Hector Bellerin's performance after Arsenal beat Stoke City at the weekend. The right-back set up two goals and was key in the win which keeps his side in the hunt for a Champions League spot.
The French coach made it clear that Bellerin has become one of the best attacking right-backs in Europe and has no intention of selling him. He wants him to play a big part in the club moving forward and that could block any negotiations with Barça, despite the player being keen on a return to Catalonia.
Wenger AND THE Champions LEAGUE
Wenger AND THE Champions LEAGUEWenger has still not revealed his future, although in England the reports are that he will not end his spell in charge of Arsenal. At the moment the club are fighting to qualify for the Champions League, although there chances are remote, and to win the FA Cup -- they face Chelsea in the final. Arsenal, if they hit those two targets, can still save their season.
At the moment Wenger is planning for next season, considering comings, goings and renewals. The Frenchman has reportedly given the OK to the sale of Alexis Sanchez and the renewal of Mesut Ozil. But it seems one of his obsessions is keeping hold of Bellerin. Wenger feels the right-back is one of his own works of art and doesn't want to lose him this summer because he's convinced his worth will go up.
Barça have spoke with the player's people and Bellerin is clear it would be a good moment to return to Camp Nou. The club have made him a priority and will do all they can to sign him, but the day of truth is arriving. Everyone is waiting on Wenger's announcement over his future. If he renews or not, Barça will speak to Arsenal this month to put an offer on the table. Both clubs have a good relationship and they've done several deals in the past.
A huge offer for Bellerin was already rejected from City last summer and the same could happen this year with Barça. The player's posture on a move will be key as Barça do not want to overpay for a right-back. The battle is just starting and it could go on for a long time.
