Real Madrid have identified Declan Rice as a priority transfer target, but Arsenal are moving to strengthen their position by opening fresh contract talks with the England midfielder.
Rice, 27, has become a central figure in Mikel Arteta’s side since arriving from West Ham in 2023. His performances during Arsenal’s title-winning campaign have reportedly drawn admiration from senior figures at the Spanish club.
Arsenal seek to secure Declan Rice’s future
According to reports, Real Madrid would be interested in pursuing Rice should an opportunity arise. The midfielder’s ability to protect the defence, carry the ball through midfield and influence matches in advanced positions has made him an attractive option for Europe’s leading clubs.
Arsenal, however, are understood to be keen to prevent uncertainty over his future. Rice’s current agreement runs until 2028 and includes an option for a further year, but the club have already begun discussions over improved long-term terms.
The Gunners are also working on new deals for captain Martin Odegaard and defender Jurrien Timber, while negotiations over Arteta’s own contract are understood to be progressing positively. The broader aim is to keep together the core of the squad that ended Arsenal’s 22-year wait for the Premier League title.
Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham in a deal worth £105 million and has since established himself as one of the club’s most important players. Earlier this year, the BBC reported that Arsenal had approached him over a new contract, with a pay rise expected to reflect his status within the team.
There has been no indication that Rice is seeking a move away from north London. He remains a key part of Arteta’s plans as Arsenal defend their domestic title and pursue Champions League success.
His growing standing was underlined on Tuesday, when he was named among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. UEFA confirmed that the ceremony will take place at London’s Palladium Theatre on 26 October.
Arsenal are also represented on the men’s shortlist by William Saliba and Gabriel, while Arteta has been nominated for the men’s Coach of the Year award. The recognition further strengthens the club’s case for keeping Rice at the heart of their project.
Real Madrid’s interest is unlikely to disappear, but Arsenal’s intention is clear: agree fresh terms with Rice before the Spanish giants can turn their admiration into a formal approach.
