Declan Rice set to be next as Arsenal continue tying key players down to new deals | OneFootball

Talks between Arsenal and Bukayo Saka over a new deal have progressed, while there is optimism regarding Jurrien Timber’s new contract, according to the BBC.

Arsenal have already handed Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes new deals over the summer,

Declan Rice is set to be next once Saka and Timber sign contract extensions at the club.

The 26-year-old England international midfielder signed a five-year contract when he joined Arsenal from West Ham United in July 2023, and he still has more than two years on his deal.

However, the Gunners will want to avoid any uncertainty over his future given his importance to the team.

Arsenal also agreed salary increases with David Raya and Leandro Trossard several months ago, without extending the duration of their contracts.

They signed Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Eberechi Eze and Piero Hincapie this summer.

Arsenal have started the season in fine form thanks to their squad depth, and holding on to their key players after strengthening across all positions in the summer is important.

Rice deserves to be rewarded with a new deal, given his impressive performances since he joined the Gunners.

He has been a solid leader on the pitch and in the dressing room, and they need him as manager Mikel Arteta looks to turn his side into perennial winners.

Talks over a new deal have not started yet, but negotiations could begin next year.

A contract extension for Kai Havertz could also be on the cards. He signed a five-year deal when he joined Arsenal from Chelsea in 2023.