Arsenal have started their Premier League title defence perfectly after winning their opening three matches of the 2026/27 season.
Mikel Arteta’s side beat Coventry City 3-0 before securing a 1-0 victory away at Aston Villa.
They then defeated Chelsea 2-1 at the Emirates, with Martin Odegaard scoring the decisive goal.
Arsenal also strengthened significantly during the summer transfer window after ending their 22-year wait for the Premier League title.
Bruno Guimaraes arrived from Newcastle United, while Ezri Konsa joined from Aston Villa. Piero Hincapie’s loan move also became permanent.
Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier provided further additions as Arsenal refreshed Arteta’s squad.
However, the club also sanctioned several attacking departures. Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard all left during the summer.
Arsenal are now turning their attention towards protecting the futures of several established members of their title-winning squad.
According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal are preparing to open new contract talks with Declan Rice amid interest from Real Madrid.
Influential figures at Real Madrid have reportedly pushed for the England midfielder to become a priority transfer target.
Rice’s current Arsenal contract runs until 2028, but the Gunners want to agree fresh terms before outside interest develops further.
The midfielder is also keen to remain at the Emirates Stadium for the longer term.
Arsenal are simultaneously planning contract discussions with Odegaard and Jurrien Timber, whose current deals also expire in 2028. Talks with Timber are the most advanced of the three negotiations.
Sporting director Andrea Berta is overseeing the extensions alongside discussions surrounding Arteta’s own future.
Arsenal’s recent approach has involved rewarding important players before they enter the final two years of their contracts.
Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham in 2023 and has since become a central figure under Arteta.
The Gunners are confident agreements can be reached with their key players as they look to maintain continuity within the squad.
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