Declan Rice Closes in on New Arsenal Contract as Talks Reach Final Stages

Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a new long-term contract for Declan Rice, with negotiations said to be approaching their final stages.

Arsenal are making significant progress in their efforts to secure the long-term future of midfielder Declan Rice, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The latest reports suggest the two parties are optimistic about reaching an agreement.

Romano has indicated that discussions have advanced considerably, with Arsenal keen to keep one of their most important players as part of the club’s long-term plans.

“Arsenal are advancing very well to keep at the club for the long term one of the crucial players of this team — Declan Rice,” Romano said, adding that the agreement was getting close to its final stages. He also reported that Arsenal were optimistic about completing the deal.

Rice could receive a significant pay rise

Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham United in July 2023, has become a central figure in Mikel Arteta’s midfield.

Reports suggest the England international currently earns approximately £240,000 per week, with the proposed new contract potentially increasing his wages to around £350,000 per week. These figures remain reported estimates, and Arsenal have not officially confirmed the proposed salary or the terms of a new agreement.

A deal at that level would place Rice among Arsenal’s highest-paid players, underlining his importance to the club’s ambitions.

Arsenal determined to protect their long-term project

The reported negotiations come as Arsenal continue to secure the futures of key members of their squad. Manager Mikel Arteta recently signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until June 2030, strengthening the club’s commitment to its long-term project.

Rice’s existing agreement runs until 2028, according to reports, with an extension option also reported. A fresh contract would give Arsenal greater certainty over the midfielder’s future.

Since arriving from West Ham, Rice has established himself as a key player for the Gunners through his work rate, defensive contribution, passing ability and threat from set pieces. Arsenal’s official end-of-season review highlighted his importance during their 2025/26 campaign, in which he was named the club’s Men’s Player of the Season for a second consecutive year.

Although the reported talks are at an advanced stage, the new contract should not be considered completed until Arsenal make an official announcement.

For Arsenal supporters, an agreement would represent an important step in keeping one of the team’s most influential midfielders at the Emirates Stadium for years to come.

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