Pivotal Arsenal push to lock up Rice as trio linger

Arsenal cannot afford to lose Declan Rice, the club’s £105 million record signing from July 2023, as they chase a Champions League title and a Premier League defence. Progressing contract talks give the Gunners a chance to keep the England midfielder beyond his June 2028 expiry.

Rice's contract talks move forward

Rice arrived as the most expensive English player in history and has become one of Mikel Arteta’s most important figures, delivering powerful runs, strong tackles and spectacular goals. He featured in 55 matches across all competitions last season, helping Arsenal end a 22‑year wait for Premier League glory and reach the Champions League final.

The 27‑year‑old’s current deal runs out in June 2028, and the club is determined to extend it with a pay rise that reflects his world‑class performances. According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal are ‘advancing’ in negotiations. The report quotes a source: “Declan Rice’s new contract talks with Arsenal are heading in a positive direction. It’s not fully agreed yet, but there’s optimism from all sides about a deal being done soon.”

Elite trio still awaiting deals

Martin Odegaard, David Raya and Kai Havertz also have contracts expiring in June 2028, yet no formal talks have begun, leaving their futures uncertain. A source said: “Interestingly, I’ve been told at various points in the last few months that these contract talks should happen soon… the lack of progress feels noteworthy. Delays are normal for all sorts of reasons, but it’s not something the club will want to drag on for too much longer.”

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Odegaard, the club captain, was linked with a move away over the summer, but speculation cooled after he started the new campaign in brilliant fashion. Meanwhile, Arteta has recently pledged his long‑term future to Arsenal by signing a fresh contract, and on September 23 it was revealed that Odegaard, Rice and Jurrien Timber are expected to follow suit.

In the past 13 months Arsenal have secured the futures of Bukayo Saka and William Saliba, and sporting director Andrea Berta has helped Arteta build one of the world’s most fearsome squads. Earlier on Saturday, reports claimed the Gunners are preparing an opening bid for a £55 million‑rated left winger, underscoring the club’s intent to reinforce while it finalises key contracts.

The next steps are clear: Arsenal must conclude Rice’s extension and initiate talks with the elite trio before the summer window closes, lest they risk losing the core that underpins their Champions League ambition and Premier League defence.