Fresh from securing the long-term future of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal are showing no signs of slowing down as the Gunners close in on handing Declan Rice a new contract.Arteta’s deal was the most important for the club, with discussions taking place for several months. Some fans feared the worst when the manager did not sign during the summer, but Arsenal always remained confident that he would stay.The former midfielder and his backroom staff have now committed their futures to the club until 2030, giving Arsenal further stability as they continue to build under his leadership.Goal reports that Rice is now expected to be the next important figure to sign a new deal, with talks between the midfielder and the club having advanced significantly.Arsenal make progress on Rice contractArsenal expect Rice to sign his new contract in the coming weeks, with negotiations reportedly moving in the right direction. The midfielder has become one of the most important players in Arteta’s team since arriving at the club.Rice remains one of the first names on the team sheet, making his long-term future another major priority for Arsenal. Keeping him committed to the project would allow the Gunners to maintain an important part of their squad.The England international has also appeared happy at Arsenal, and there is no indication from the club that negotiations will become complicated.(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)Gunners want to keep key playerRice became Arsenal’s most expensive signing when he joined the club, and his performances have made him a central figure in the team.The Gunners therefore want to ensure his future is secured after successfully reaching an agreement with Arteta. The manager’s new deal runs until 2030, and Rice could soon follow him by committing his own future to the club.Arsenal do not expect to encounter major problems in extending Rice’s contract, with the player seemingly settled and the club keen to reward his importance._____________________________________________________________________________________________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…More Stories / Latest NewsArsenal is close to securing the long-term future of another key player8 October 2026, 21:00Arsenal recover four players back after international break8 October 2026, 19:45Arsenal is considering move for Juventus defender8 October 2026, 18:30The post Arsenal is close to securing the long-term future of another key player appeared first on Just Arsenal News.