Mikel Arteta has delivered an encouraging update on Declan Rice’s Arsenal future, expressing confidence that the England international will commit his long-term future to the club.Rice has established himself as one of Arsenal’s most important players since his £105 million arrival from West Ham in 2023, and securing his services for the years ahead is understandably a priority.The 27-year-old has entered the final two years of his current contract, with discussions over improved terms having taken place for several months.The Evening Standard reports that Rice is now close to agreeing a new deal, potentially earning around £350,000 per week, putting him among Arsenal’s highest-paid players.Arteta Confident Rice Wants to Stay at ArsenalSpeaking about the midfielder’s future, Arteta made it clear that he believes an agreement will be reached.“My feeling is that he is very happy here. Every conversation that I have with him, he wants to continue here for the long term.“It will be a matter of time when we resolve that.”Those words will certainly encourage Arsenal supporters who have watched Rice develop into one of the Premier League’s outstanding midfielders.His consistency, leadership and ability to influence matches at both ends of the pitch have made him central to Arteta’s plans.It is little surprise that former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard recently described Rice as a world-class player.However, until the contract is signed and officially announced, supporters will have to wait for confirmation.(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)Rice Remains Crucial to Arsenal’s Title AmbitionsThe timing of Arteta’s comments is particularly interesting, with Arsenal preparing for a huge Premier League encounter against Liverpool at Anfield today.Rice missed the midweek Carabao Cup defeat against Fleetwood Town after picking up a knock, but his return to training has provided encouragement ahead of Sunday’s match. Rice is among three players who could return to the squad for the Liverpool game.With Arsenal challenging to defend their Premier League title, keeping their most influential players committed to the club is just as important as strengthening the squad through new signings.Rice, who features in Arsenal’s new Oakley Meta partnership campaign, We Go Again, has already demonstrated his value on the pitch. A new long-term contract would represent another significant statement of Arsenal’s ambitions.How important is securing Declan Rice’s future, and would you make him one of Arsenal’s highest-paid players? Join the conversation in the comments below._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…The post New Contract for Arsenal’s Midfield Star ‘A Matter of Time’, Insists Arteta appeared first on Just Arsenal News.