Declan Rice Nears New Long-Term Arsenal Contract
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is close to agreeing a new long-term deal, with talks at an advanced stage and a pay rise expected to match Bukayo Saka's level.
Declan Rice is close to agreeing a new long-term contract with Arsenal, sources have told BBC Sport. Talks over an extension were first reported in March and have now reached an advanced stage. Rice's current deal was due to expire at the end of next season.
The England international joined Arsenal from West Ham for £105m in July 2023 and has since made more than 150 starts for the club. The 27-year-old has become a key figure for both Arsenal and England, with national team manager Thomas Tuchel this week describing him as one of the best midfielders in Europe.
The new contract would give Rice a significant pay increase on his reported £240,000-per-week salary, putting him on a par with Arsenal's best earner Bukayo Saka, who is believed to earn around £350,000 a week. The development comes after Arsenal announced manager Mikel Arteta's new four-year deal on Wednesday, following the club's Premier League title success.
While the club has not officially confirmed the agreement, supporters have welcomed the news. One fan told BBC Sport that tying Rice down is essential for maintaining Arsenal's midfield stability, while another expressed hope that the improved terms reflect his importance to the team. These reactions remain fan opinion, not verified details of the contract.
Rice's potential extension, alongside Arteta's commitment, signals Arsenal's intent to keep their core intact as they build on their recent Premier League triumph.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
