Arsenal are set to use the current international break to finalise a new long-term contract for midfielder Declan Rice. The club want to secure the future of the 27-year-old, who has been a central figure in their rise to second place in the Premier League.
Rice’s existing deal includes a 12-month extension option, but manager Mikel Arteta and the club’s hierarchy are keen to agree fresh terms that reflect his importance. The England international has been instrumental in a campaign that has seen Arsenal collect 12 points from their first five matches, sitting just three points behind leaders Manchester City.
Securing a key asset
Negotiations are expected to progress swiftly over the coming days, with both parties aligned on the principle of a new agreement. Rice’s influence in the heart of the team has been clear, providing a platform for the attacking talents around him. His performances have helped the Gunners to a goal difference of plus four, scoring eight times while conceding just four.
Arteta has consistently highlighted Rice’s value since his arrival. “He is a player who defines what we want to be about,” the manager has said previously. Securing his long-term commitment is viewed as a priority piece of business, even with the existing option in place.
The move comes as Arsenal look to build on a solid, if recently disrupted, start. Their last outing was a 3-0 defeat away to Brighton, a result that ended a run of four consecutive wins. They will return to action on October 10th with a home fixture against Leeds United, who currently sit fifth.
With the top scorer this season being Bukayo Saka with three goals, the team’s structure relies heavily on Rice’s defensive work and distribution from deep. The club’s current standings position shows the progress made, and tying down core players is seen as the next logical step. The new contract is expected to be concluded before the squad reconvenes for domestic duties.
