Arsenal is preparing to start official talks with midfielder Declan Rice to renew his contract before the start of the next season, in a move aimed at securing the future of one of the team's standout stars, according to 'TEAMtalk'.

Rice joined Arsenal in 2023 from West Ham United for a deal worth £105 million including add-ons, and quickly became a key player in coach Mikel Arteta's lineup. The 27-year-old has seen other team stars like Bukayo Saka renew their contracts in recent months.

Sporting director Andrea Berta confirmed that the club intends to offer a five-year contract once negotiations begin, and there are strong expectations that Rice wants to commit to a new contract with the team for the remainder of his career. His current contract runs until 2028, valued at around £240,000 per week, with an option for an additional year for the club.

Rice is considered one of the best midfielders in the world and has directly contributed to 14 goals this season through scoring and assisting. The move to renew Rice's contract follows the extensions of Saka, Gabriel, and Saliba's contracts, to enhance team stability and secure its key players.