Arteta says midfielder’s new contract is only a “matter of time”

Arteta says midfielder’s new contract is only a “matter of time” Mikel Arteta has given a positive update on Declan Rice’s Arsenal future, while stopping short of saying a new contract has already been agreed. Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images Mikel Arteta believes Declan Rice wants to stay at Arsenal for the long term and says it is only “a matter of time” before his future is sorted. Asked about the prospect of a new contract for his star midfielder whose deal expires in 2028 (although it comes with an option for an addition year), Arteta said : “My feeling is that he’s very happy here, in every conversation I have with him, and he wants to continue here for the long term. “It will be a matter of time before we sort that. He’s been very consistent again. “What we are demanding him to do every year is very difficult to maintain. He’s doing it, a big credit to him.” Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images For Premier League Rice joined from West Ham United in a club-record transfer in 2023 and has become an integral part of Arteta’s side. The 27-year-old missed Arsenal’s midweek shambles against Fleetwood Town in the Carabao Cup with a small issue but is back in training ahead of Arsenal’s game against Liverpool on Sunday as they go in search of their first league win at Anfield in 14 years. Should he play, it would be his 171st appearance for Arsenal. Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images