Arsenal are moving to secure the long-term future of Declan Rice. The club intends to use the current September international break to finalise a new contract for the 27-year-old midfielder, who has become a central figure under Mikel Arteta.
Rice arrived at the Emirates Stadium in the summer of 2023 and his current deal includes a 12-month extension option. Arsenal's hierarchy, however, are keen to move beyond that clause and commit the England international to a fresh, extended agreement. The player is understood to be settled and happy in north London, making the negotiations straightforward.
A key pillar
Since his club-record transfer, Rice has been instrumental in Arsenal's midfield, providing defensive solidity and driving the team forward. His importance is reflected in the team's current league position, sitting second in the Premier League with 12 points from five games. They are just three points behind leaders Manchester City, with a goal difference of plus four. The desire to lock down such a key player is a clear statement of intent from the club's sporting project.
Arteta has repeatedly praised Rice's influence and professionalism. “He sets the standard every day in training and in matches,” the manager has said previously. Securing his future is seen as a priority equal to any new signing. The process is expected to be concluded swiftly during the pause in the domestic schedule.
While the focus is on Rice, the squad will regroup after a 3-0 defeat away to Brighton in their last outing. They face a quick turnaround, with a home match against Leeds United next on the fixtures list for 10 October. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full squad online. The new deal for Rice is set to be confirmed before that next Premier League fixture.
