Arsenal have spent the last few seasons carefully building a squad capable of competing for the biggest trophies.
Under Mikel Arteta, the club have focused heavily on stability, with key players being tied down to long-term contracts.
Arsenal want a core group of players who can grow together over several years.
The club believe continuity is essential if they are to compete consistently with the biggest teams in Europe.
Recent seasons have already shown signs of progress, as Arsenal have continuously challenged near the top of the Premier League.
Their squad now contains a number of players considered among the best in their positions.
One of those players arrived in a blockbuster transfer just a few years ago, with the England international quickly becoming a central figure in Arteta’s system.
His leadership and ability off the ball have made him one of the most influential players in the squad.
Now there could be another major development regarding his future.
According to the BBC, Arsenal have opened talks with Declan Rice over a new long-term contract at the club.
Rice only joined Arsenal in the summer of 2023, with the £105m deal from West Ham making him the most expensive signing in the club’s history.
Despite that pressure, Rice settled quickly at the Emirates, becoming one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers.
Rice currently has a contract that runs until 2028, with the option of an additional year.
Because of that, there is no immediate urgency to complete an extension.
However, Arsenal are keen to reward the player’s impact, also wanting to avoid any uncertainty surrounding one of their most important stars.
And if talks progress smoothly, Rice could soon become the latest Arsenal star to commit his long-term future to the club.
Exc: Arsenal open talks to extend Declan Rice’s contact. Approach to commence formal talks made. Dialogue at an early stage. Midfielder has up to three years to run on his current deal so no rush to complete but process now underway. https://t.co/9sxp3QoesP
— Sami Mokbel (@SamiMokbel_BBC) March 13, 2026
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
