Declan Rice set to follow in Bukayo Saka's footsteps as Arsenal open contract talks

View 2 Images

Arsenal have opened talks with Declan Rice over a new contract at the Emirates Stadium. The England midfielder has proven to be an inspired signing for the Gunners following his £105m move from West Ham in 2023.

Rice still has two years left on his current deal in North London, with the option to extend that by a further campaign. But Arsenal are keen to extend his stay even longer than that.

As per BBC Sport , Rice has been approached regarding a new long-term deal, with the intent to commit his prime years to the club. Discussions are underway, with Rice potentially in line to land a significant pay rise that will see him become one of the club’s highest earners.

No timeline is thought to have been put on an agreement, with those talks at an early stage. Rice, 27, has made 144 appearances for the club in all competitions and has scored 20 goals.

FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news and more on our dedicated Facebook page

Speaking earlier this season, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was asked if he believes Rice is one of the best midfielders in the world and was clear on his response.

He replied: "Yes, for me, yes. Declan is constantly adding things to his game, he's constantly adding things to his role in the team. I don't see where he can stop because he can still improve in a lot of areas and he wants to improve. He's such a pivotal player for us."

Meanwhile, ex-Arsenal star Theo Walcott has backed Rice to challenge for the Ballon d’Or in the near future.

He said: "I always look at Ballon d’Or players. A lot of people would look at him as the forward players, but he [Rice] does so much more than anyone sees. And it’s the bits that no one sees, right?

View 2 Images

“But he’s generally everywhere, his attitude. I think it’s really important the way he is off the field as well. I think that plays his role. I really do because he’s a role model to young children."

Should Rice agree fresh terms at the Emirates, that would see him become the second Arsenal star to commit his future to the club. Club and international teammate Bukayo Saka also penned a new contract earlier this season, with that new deal set to keep him at the club until at least 2030.

Both players have been key to Arsenal’s push for the Premier League crown this season. Arteta’s side sit seven points clear of Manchester City ahead of Saturday’s clash with Everton .

Content cannot be displayed without consent