Mikel Arteta 'close to signing' new Arsenal contract despite one move interesting him

· Mirror

Mikel Arteta has transformed Arsenal since first taking charge in December 2019 and the Gunners boss has a decision to make, with his current deal set to expire in June

Mikel Arteta is close to agreeing a new contract with Arsenal, despite being tempted by a return to Spain some time in the future. Arteta's current deal expires in nine months and the Gunners are keen to tie their manager down to fresh terms.

The 44-year-old has transformed the club's fortunes since taking charge in December 2019, securing their first Premier League title in 22 years in May, as well as lifting the FA Cup and reaching the Champions League final.

The Gunners are the firm favourites for the Premier League title this season and club chiefs understandably want to remove any doubt or speculation over Arteta's future. His last contract extension came back in September 2024 and only runs until the end of June.

All parties are on the same page, with Arteta ready to put pen to paper on a contract which will establish him as one of the best-paid managers in the world. BBC Sport reports that negotiations have progressed in recent weeks and Arteta will improve his current terms, which are worth £10million per season, plus a £5m bonus for Champions League qualification.

While there is currently no doubt about Arteta's commitment in north London, Arsenal are aware that he could one day be tempted by a return to his native Spain. However, one of the things in Arsenal's favour is the fact that Arteta would not be able to have as much of a say in every facet of the club were he to join Real Madrid or Barcelona.

The mutual respect is such now that Arteta has significant influence in Arsenal's transfer business. It was he who led the charm offensive in their attempts to lure Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior and Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez to Arsenal this summer.

Speaking last month about contract talks, Arteta said: "They (the fans) don't have to worry about any of that because I want to be here, I'm extremely happy and I feel very grateful to work with the people I work with. When we have the possibility, we will resolve that. That's it.

> "Everybody feels comfortable that the timing of the contract is not going to be an issue because my will certainly is to be here and I'm very happy here. My feeling from the club is the same one. That's why everyone is doing things in a very organic way."

That feeling is mutual, with the club's chief executive Richard Garlick saying recently that it was a "matter of time" before a new long-term deal was confirmed for Arteta.

Read the original

People in this story

Related