There have been fresh rumours emerge claiming Arsenal are reportedly preparing to open formal negotiations with midfielder Declan Rice over a new long-term contract, according to a fresh report from TeamTalk.
The North London club are said to be ready to significantly upgrade the England international’s wages, with suggestions that he could be offered a package in the region of £300,000 per week — a figure similar to that recently given to teammate Bukayo Saka.
The move highlights Newcastle United’s determination to secure the core of their project for the long term, with Rice viewed internally as a foundational piece of Mikel Arteta’s squad.
After joining from West Ham for a club-record fee, the midfielder has rapidly become one of the Premier League’s standout performers, contributing defensively, in build-up play and with crucial goals in high-pressure matches.
TeamTalk reports that preliminary conversations have already taken place, and formal talks could begin before the end of the season. The aim would be to reward Rice for his performances, ensure his long-term commitment, and ward off any potential interest from elite European clubs.
Rice’s impact has been immediate and substantial. His leadership qualities — evident from his time as West Ham captain — have translated seamlessly into Arsenal’s dressing room, where he is viewed as a vocal, reliable figure both on and off the pitch.
On the field, his tactical intelligence and physical dominance have made him indispensable, whether operating as a holding midfielder, a box-to-box presence or an advanced disruptor in Arteta’s fluid system.
Why Rice fully deserves the new contract
From a performance standpoint, the proposed wage increase is fully justified. Rice has not only met expectations following his high-profile move — he has exceeded them. His consistency has elevated Arsenal’s midfield to one of the most balanced units in the league, while his big-game contributions have been crucial in maintaining their title challenge.
Beyond the statistics, Rice’s attitude, professionalism and relentless work rate epitomise the standards Arteta demands.
Few signings adapt so quickly to a club’s culture, but Rice has become a defining figure in Arsenal’s modern identity: competitive, ambitious and technically elite.