Image source: football.london
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has identified Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice as his next contract priorities after securing Bukayo Saka’s agreement to a new deal until June 2031. The club understands that extending both players’ stays represents crucial business following Berta’s successful negotiations with Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes earlier this season.
Berta Targets Timber and Rice Extensions After Securing Saka Until 2031
Arsenal are keen to extend Timber’s stay at the Emirates Stadium despite the 24-year-old defender having two-and-a-half years remaining on his current deal. The Netherlands international joined from Ajax for £34 million during summer 2023 on a five-year contract but has established himself as a key player in Mikel Arteta’s side after recovering from a debut campaign injury setback.
The club also want to tie Rice down to a new deal following his impressive performances since arriving from West Ham for £100 million plus £5 million in add-ons in summer 2023. The 26-year-old midfielder signed a five-year contract with an option for a further 12 months and has featured in all but four Premier League fixtures since his move, contributing 15 goals and 21 assists across all competitions.
Rice has become a stalwart in Arteta’s midfield alongside his defensive versatility, while Timber’s recovery from injury has seen him emerge as a crucial component of Arsenal’s backline. Both players represent significant investments that the club want to protect with improved terms, following the successful model established with other key squad members this season.
Six Arsenal players in total could be in line for contract extensions once Saka’s deal is finalized, with Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, Christian Norgaard and Leandro Trossard all entering the final 18 months of their current agreements. However, Berta has prioritized Timber and Rice as the most pressing cases given their importance to Arteta’s tactical system and their status as key performers since joining the club.
