"Agent is in London today" - Fabrizio Romano says talks have taken place with the board over Arsenal defender's exit

Arsenal have met Hector Bellerin's representatives over the prospect of terminating his contract, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The Italian journalist claimed that the full-back wants to return to Real Betis, where he spent last season on loan. The player's agent was in London to discuss the possibility of terminating Bellerin's current Arsenal deal, which runs until June 2023.

Bellerin joined the Gunners' youth academy from Barcelona's La Masia in 2011. Since making his senior debut in 2013, the Spain international has played 239 times across competitions for the north London club, registering nine goals and 29 assists.

While the right-back is extremely quick, a series of injuries has seemingly slowed him down in recent years. He made 32 appearances in all competitions for Real Betis last season as they finished fifth in La Liga and won the Copa del Rey.

Bellerin did not feature in Mikel Arteta's squad for their Premier League opener against Crystal Palace on Saturday (August 5), despite Takehiro Tomiyasu being injured. Ben White instead covered at right-back, suggesting the Spanish defender is surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium.

Alan Hutton believes Hector Bellerin's time at Arsenal may be up

Former Scotland international Alan Hutton was asked in July if the full-back had a future at Arsenal.

Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton replied:

“I think his time might be up if I’m totally honest. Before his serious injuries he was lightening quick, he was a regular and he looked like he’d probably be there forever. It’s not quite worked out that way the last couple of seasons.

“I think it was the right decision for him to go out on loan and play. Back home in his own country, he probably felt good being back there and things like that, so it was a good move. Now [Takehiro] Tomiyasu has come in and I think when he’s fit he’s been exceptional. I don’t see Bellerin pushing him out."

The former Tottenham Hotspur defender added:

“If he’s happy to be a squad player and try and push him all the way of course he’ll be up for the fight I’m pretty sure of it. But I think moving forward, [Mikel] Arteta sees the likes of Tomiyasu being the kind of number one right-back so it’s going to be hard to dislodge him.

“So it’s really going to be down to Hector Bellerin and what he decides. Is he up for the fight or does he see himself somewhere else? I think he’ll move on personally.“

Bellerin has helped Arsenal win three FA Cups and as many Community Shields in his tenure.