Arsenal open long-term contract talks with midfielder Declan Rice
Arsenal have commenced negotiations with Declan Rice over a lucrative new long-term contract to secure the midfielder’s prime years in north London.
The England international currently has two years remaining on his existing deal, which includes an option to extend for a further 12 months.
However, the Premier League leaders are eager to reward the 27-year-old with a significant pay increase to solidify his position among the club’s highest earners.
Rice reportedly takes home £240,000 per week under his current terms.
Securing a midfield cornerstone
Discussions are described as being at a preliminary stage with no set timeline established for their completion.
The process of ensuring the former West Ham captain remains a central figure for the foreseeable future is now actively under way.
Since arriving in a club-record £105m transfer in 2023, the combative holding player has forged a reputation as one of Europe’s elite.
He has amassed 102 league appearances for the Gunners while establishing himself as an indispensable asset for his country with 72 senior caps.
Building a title-winning core
The Emirates hierarchy have deliberately moved to lock down the futures of their most crucial personnel over the past 12 months.
Attacking talisman Bukayo Saka recently committed to a fresh four-and-a-half-year agreement worth a minimum of £300,000 per week.
Defensive duo William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, along with highly-rated academy graduates Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, have also signed extensions.
Furthermore, the title challengers have initiated dialogue with Dutch defender Jurrien Timber regarding an improved deal.
Pushing for domestic glory
These contract developments arrive as Arsenal set the pace at the summit of the English top flight.
The north Londoners currently boast a seven-point advantage over reigning champions Manchester City, who retain a crucial game in hand.
They host Everton this Saturday, seeking to inch closer to a first championship triumph since Arsene Wenger’s legendary 2004 campaign.
