Arsenal move to match Saka's wage as Rice nears new deal

Declan Rice, the 27‑year‑old England midfielder, is close to sealing a new long‑term contract with Arsenal, sources told. The Gunners, who paid £105 million for him in July 2023, plan to boost his £240,000‑a‑week salary to around £350,000 this season.

Fee and Arsenal's ambition

Arsenal paid a fee reported at between £105 million and €115 million to bring Rice from West Ham in July 2023. The England midfielder quickly became a crucial component of the Gunners' midfield, providing balance and defensive solidity. His arrival coincided with Arsenal's first league title in 22 years, underscoring the club's intent to invest in top talent.

Contract terms and wage boost

Rice's current contract runs until the end of next season, and talks that began in March have now reached an advanced stage. The new deal is expected to raise his weekly earnings from £240,000 to a figure reported at between £350,000 and €400,000, putting him alongside Bukayo Saka, who earns about £350,000 a week. Our ARSENAL are determined to lock down the midfielder before the summer transfer window opens.

On‑field contributions

Since joining, Rice has made more than 150 starts for Arsenal and recorded 165 appearances in total, contributing 21 goals and 33 assists. In the title‑winning campaign he supplied eleven assists, highlighting his importance in set‑piece situations.

Rice has earned 80 caps and scored eight goals for England, and Thomas Tuchel praised him as one of the very best midfielders in the world. The England boss added that Rice is humble, ready to be a team player and brings quality and energy to the group.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said Rice can adapt to anything thrown at him and that his presence in the leadership group is vital even without the armband. He stressed that Rice has earned the right to increase his role and be more present in everything the team does.

The Gunners face Leeds United in the Premier League after the international break, and it remains uncertain whether Rice will be fit after missing the recent England camp with an injury.