Arsenal are preparing to begin formal negotiations with Declan Rice over a new contract, demonstrating the club’s determination to lock down one of the defining figures of Mikel Arteta’s project.
The England international has emerged as a key part of Arsenal’s resurgence and Emirates bosses are looking to improve his long-term contract to reflect his importance.
According to TEAMtalk, manager Andrea Berta is reportedly prioritizing the renewal of Rice for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, with discussions expected to accelerate in the coming months.
Declan Rice has transformed Arsenal’s midfield
Arsenal broke their record signing when they signed Rice from West Ham United in July 2023 for £105 million.
At the time, he was already recognized as one of England’s most promising midfielders, but his influence grew even further in North London.
Rice’s combination of defensive discipline, athleticism and leadership brings balance to Arsenal’s midfield.
Beyond statistics, his presence enhanced the team’s mentality. Rice regularly anchors transitions, dictates tempo, and provides calm.
| competition | app | play time | the goal | assist | Pass accuracy | successful tackle | clean sheet | yellow card |
| premier league | 27 | 2,330 | 4 | 4 | 90.1% | 33 | 12 | 2 |
| champions league | 6 | 411 | 0 | 2 | 88.5% | 1 | 3 | 3 |
| EFL Cup | 5 | 198 | 0 | 2 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| total | 38 | 2,939 | 4 | 8 | 89.8% | 34 | 15 | 5 |
Declan Rice’s stats this season
Midfielder wants to extend stay in north London
Rice’s current contract runs until June 2028 and is said to earn him around £240,000 a week.
Despite the long-term nature of the deal, Arsenal are keen to act early rather than risk future uncertainty.
According to reports, Berta has already started preliminary contact with Rice’s agent, reaffirming the club’s intention to begin substantive negotiations in 2026.
Both the player and the camp are thought to be in favor, with Rice reportedly keen to dedicate his prime years to Arsenal’s evolving project.
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