Atletico Madrid are holding initial talks over the potential signing of Hector Bellerin, who has informed Arsenal of his desire to leave.

Spanish outlet El Desmarque report that Hector Bellerin has informed Arsenal of his desire to leave the club, and Atletico Madrid have given him cause to doubt his priority move back to Real Betis.

Atletico Madrid and Arsenal have reportedly now opened talks over a possible transfer for Bellerin, with the Spanish club also having held conversations with the player’s agent.

Negotiation is now underway, but still in the early stages. Bellerin has been made aware of Atletico’s interest, and he considers them a good option if Real Betis can’t agree a fee with Arsenal.

Bellerin is willing to give up a large part of his salary to complete a move, and he’s also drawing interest from Villarreal.

A move to Atletico won’t happen quickly. The La Liga side need to sell before buying, which is likely to see the situation drag on through the remaining months of the transfer window.

Goal España also recently reported that Atletico Madrid have been in contact with Bellerin over a possible summer move.

Though Goal added that Bellerin is far from the only player on that shortlist, with Emerson Royal, Pablo Maffeo, Nordi Mukiele, Nahuel Molina, and Jonathan Clauss also options.

James Benge of CBS Sports wrote in mid-June that Bellerin is considering his summer options and not limiting himself to a Betis return alone. But Arsenal want a fee for his sale, so it’s up to the interested clubs to make a serious move.