Declan Rice Finalizing New Long-Term Arsenal Deal to Match Top Earners

Declan Rice is close to agreeing on a new long-term contract with Arsenal following advanced discussions between the player and the club. The England midfielder, who joined the Gunners from West Ham United for £105 million in July 2023, has established himself as an indispensable component of the North London team's tactical core. His existing terms were due to expire at the conclusion of next season, prompting the club hierarchy to secure his future following initial discussions that commenced in March.

The proposed extension includes a substantial wage increase that will raise Rice from his reported £240,000-per-week package to approximately £350,000 per week. This financial adjustment places the 27-year-old on par with the club's top earner, Bukayo Saka. England manager Thomas Tuchel, who recently missed Rice during a three-week training camp due to a withdrawal, has previously described the midfielder as one of the elite operators in European football, recognizing his extensive international pedigree.

Since his record transfer from West Ham, Rice has accumulated 165 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal. His contributions were vital in guiding the club to end their 22-year Premier League title drought during the previous campaign. Internationally, the midfielder has collected 80 caps for England since switching his allegiance from the Republic of Ireland in 2019, consistently functioning as an anchor for both club and country.

The development swiftly follows Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta committing his own future to the reigning Premier League champions with a fresh four-year contract announced earlier this week. Rice is anticipated to feature in the starting lineup when Arsenal host Leeds United in their upcoming domestic fixture, as the club continues to solidify its championship-winning foundation for the foreseeable future.