Declan Rice close to signing new Arsenal contract

Declan Rice has confirmed he is close to signing a new contract with Arsenal, the 27-year-old said before England's game against Spain on Sunday. BBC Sport first revealed on 7 October that the midfielder was set to sign a new long-term deal at Emirates Stadium.

Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham in 2023 for £105m. His current deal runs until 2028. The former West Ham player is now expected to extend his tenure in north London.

"A new contract is hopefully on the horizon soon and I'm extremely lucky to be at a club like Arsenal where the manager shows me so much trust and team-mates who put so much energy in to me," he said.

He also spoke about the role continuity has played in his career, saying: "I've been extremely lucky I've managed to play at such a consistent level throughout my career. I always set myself targets, pushing for more," he said. "I'm extremely Iucky not to have to worry about that stuff as it makes playing football far more easier."

The club has indicated the deal will be a long-term contract at Emirates Stadium, as first reported by BBC Sport on 7 October. The new agreement is expected to be finalised soon.

Once signed, the contract will put Rice alongside Bukayo Saka as Arsenal's top earner.