Midfielder Declan Rice is reportedly nearing an agreement on a lucrative, long-term contract extension with Arsenal. Discussions between the club and the English international have progressed significantly, according to insiders familiar with the negotiations.
Rice originally moved to the Emirates Stadium in July 2023 following a high-profile transfer from West Ham United that commanded a fee of £105 million. Since that time, the 27-year-old has established himself as an indispensable figure in the core of the team, surpassing 150 starting appearances in a red and white shirt.
While his existing agreement was scheduled to conclude at the end of the following campaign, preliminary discussions began earlier this year. The current talks have advanced to a stage where an official announcement regarding his prolonged future in north London could be on the horizon.
Under the terms of the proposed renewal, the midfielder is expected to receive a substantial wage increase that will elevate his weekly earnings. This adjustment will align his compensation package more closely with teammate Bukayo Saka, who currently stands as the squad's top earner.
Beyond his contributions at the club level, Rice remains an essential component of the England national team. National team manager Thomas Tuchel recently praised the player, identifying him as one of the premier central midfielders currently competing in European football.
The impending extension follows another major personnel development at the club, coming just days after manager Mikel Arteta committed his future to the reigning Premier League title holders by signing a new four-year contract. With both leadership on the pitch and in the dugout secure, the club continues to build toward long-term stability and continued domestic and European success.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC Sport. Read the original report at BBC Sport.
