Declan Rice to Sign Long-Term Deal with Arsenal Matching Bukayo Saka's Top Wages
Arsenal are about to secure Declan Rice’s future with a new long-term contract that will place him alongside Bukayo Saka as the club's highest-paid player. The midfielder's consistent performances since his arrival have made him central to the team’s plans at the Emirates Stadium.
Midfield Pillar for the Gunners
Since moving from West Ham for £105 million in the summer of 2023, Rice has proven vital under Mikel Arteta’s management. He has featured in 165 matches across all competitions for Arsenal, scoring 21 goals and assisting 33 times. His current contract runs until the end of next season, but talks to extend it have reached an advanced stage after being confirmed earlier this year by BBC Sport.
Financial Upgrade to Match Club Leaders
The upcoming deal will raise Rice’s weekly wage from around £240,000 to roughly £350,000. This pay rise would put him level with Bukayo Saka, who holds the highest salary at the club. By matching Saka’s earnings, Arsenal recognize Rice’s tactical importance and leadership, especially following last season’s Premier League title win, their first since 2004, and reaching the Champions League final, narrowly losing on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain.
Stability with Arteta and Early Season Form
This contract development comes shortly after manager Mikel Arteta signed a new four-year deal, reinforcing stability at the club. Rice has started the current campaign well, appearing seven times across competitions and already providing two assists in the Premier League.
Current Season and Upcoming Fixture
Arsenal currently occupy second place in the Premier League table with 12 points from five games, trailing leaders Manchester City by three points. After a 3-0 loss to Brighton, they aim to rebound when hosting Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
- Date: 10 October 2026
- Time: 14:30
- Fixture: Arsenal vs Leeds United
