Arsenal Transfer News: Declan Rice Contract Talks Planned As Real Madrid Target Mikel Arteta Favourite

Arsenal Transfer News: Arsenal FC are reportedly preparing to open talks over a new contract for Declan Rice as they look to secure the services of one of Mikel Arteta's most important midfielders. Rice's current agreement is understood to run until 2028, but Arsenal are keen to improve his terms and extend his stay. The timing matters because Real Madrid have reportedly identified the England international as a priority midfield target. Arsenal want to settle Rice's future before Europe's biggest clubs make a move, with the 27-year-old central to Arteta's plans. Arsenal Move To Secure Declan Rice's Long-Term Future Arsenal's decision to begin renewal discussions reflects Rice's importance since his arrival from West Ham United in 2023. The midfielder joined for an initial £100 million, with the deal potentially rising by another £5m, and established himself as a key starter. Rice has impressed beyond his defensive role. During Arsenal's 2025/26 title-winning campaign, the Premier League highlighted his box-to-box influence before Arteta increasingly used him as either the deeper midfielder or in a double pivot. His versatility has been quite valuable to Arsenal. Rice has already recorded 313 Premier League appearances, 25 goals and 30 assists across his career. For Arsenal in 2025/26, he made 36 starts and one substitute appearance, scoring four goals and providing five assists. Why Real Madrid Interest Matters For Mikel Arteta Real Madrid's reported interest adds urgency to Arsenal's contract strategy. Reports in June indicated that influential figures at the Spanish club viewed Rice as a potential priority as they assess their midfield options. For Arteta, retaining Rice would preserve a midfielder who can defend, progress possession and drive attacks. His importance was evident in Arsenal's recent victory over Chelsea, when Rice started in midfield as Arsenal maintained their perfect league start. Arsenal have already submitted their 2026/27 Premier League squad list with Rice included. Opening renewal talks would strengthen his contractual position before the final year. Rice will be next seen in action when Arsenal clash against SSC Napoli in their UEFA Champions League opener on September 9. ALSO READ: Real Madrid vs Inter Milan: Federico Dimarco Ruled Out Of UEFA Champions League Match At Santiago Bernabeu | Latest Injury Update