Declan Rice is on his way to securing his long-term future at Arsenal, with sources telling BBC Sport that the England midfielder is close to putting pen to paper on a new contract at the Emirates.

The 26-year-old — who turns 27 this year — has been one of the most influential players in the Premier League since joining the Gunners from West Ham for £105m in July 2023. His current deal runs until the end of next season, but the noises out of north London are firmly positive, with negotiations now described as being at an advanced stage.

A Cornerstone of Arteta's Side

Rice has made more than 150 starts for Arsenal since his arrival, establishing himself as the engine room of Mikel Arteta's side. His combination of defensive discipline and driving forward play has made him essential to the club's Premier League title ambitions, and the hierarchy at the Emirates have been eager to tie him down well before any risk of his current terms entering their final months.

BBC Sport first revealed in March that formal talks over an extension were under way. The process has accelerated since, and a resolution now appears imminent.

A Pay Packet to Match His Status

Rice is set to receive a substantial pay rise on his reported £240,000-per-week salary. The new terms are expected to place him alongside club-record earner Bukayo Saka, who is believed to pocket around £350,000 a week — a figure that underlines just how important both players are to Arsenal's project.

That level of investment from the club signals genuine ambition. Keeping their two most influential midfield and attacking players on top-tier wages sends a clear message to Premier League rivals and to potential transfer suitors that Arsenal are not for turning.

Tuchel Praise Adds to the Momentum

The timing of the contract news is striking. England manager Thomas Tuchel this week described Rice as one of the best midfielders in Europe — high praise that only strengthens the midfielder's bargaining position, though it appears both parties are already well aligned on terms.

The deal also follows swiftly on from Arteta's own new four-year contract with the club, confirmed on Wednesday. The Spaniard's extended stay gave the squad a clear signal of continuity at the top, and securing Rice on a fresh long-term deal would complete a decisive statement of intent from the Arsenal board.

What It Means for Arsenal

For supporters, this is exactly the kind of business that separates genuine title contenders from the chasing pack. Losing Rice — whether to a Premier League rival or a European heavyweight — would have been a significant blow. Getting a deal done early, and at a wage commensurate with his standing, removes that uncertainty entirely.

The market had already flagged Rice as one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe, and there will be no shortage of clubs disappointed to hear that he looks set to stay put in north London for the foreseeable future.

Arsenal fans will be hoping an official announcement follows in short order. If the noises out of the club are accurate, it should not be long.

Frequently asked

How long is Declan Rice's new Arsenal contract?
The precise length has not been confirmed, but sources describe it as a long-term deal. Rice's current contract was due to expire at the end of next season.
How much will Declan Rice earn on his new Arsenal deal?
Rice is expected to receive a significant pay increase from his reported £240,000-per-week salary, with the new terms set to put him on a par with Bukayo Saka, who is believed to earn around £350,000 a week.
When did Declan Rice join Arsenal?
Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham United in July 2023 for a fee of £105 million.