Arsenal closing in on new long-term deal for Mikel Arteta

Arsenal are putting the finishing touches to a new contract for manager Mikel Arteta, with negotiations described as progressing positively.

Sources familiar with the discussions told the BBC that there is growing confidence among everyone involved that the Spanish coach will extend his stay at the club. Talks have advanced in recent weeks and are understood to be moving towards a final agreement.

Arteta moved decisively last month to end any remaining uncertainty about his future, making clear that he wanted to continue in north London.

“Everyone feels comfortable that the timing of the contract is not going to be an issue, because my desire is definitely to stay here and I am happy with the team,” he said.

Arsenal chief executive Richard Garlick has also indicated that confirmation of Arteta’s new long-term contract is now only a matter of time.

The proposed agreement is expected to make Arteta one of the highest-paid managers in world football. Arsenal have committed to significantly improving the terms of his current deal, which is worth £10m a year, with a further £5m available if the club qualifies for the Champions League.

Arteta has only nine months remaining on his existing contract. Since taking charge in December 2019, he has overseen a major transformation at Arsenal.

The club had lost its place in the Champions League when Arteta was appointed. Under his management, Arsenal went on to win the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years last season.

Arsenal are considered the leading candidates to retain their domestic title and are also among the strong contenders to win the Champions League for the first time in the club’s history this season.

A new contract would provide further clarity over Arteta’s position as Arsenal pursue success in both competitions. The club’s confidence in the manager’s future is reflected by the proposed improvement to his salary and the expectation that the agreement will be completed soon.

Neither side has indicated that the remaining nine months of Arteta’s current deal are creating concern, with his previous comments and Garlick’s assessment both pointing towards a continuation of the partnership established in 2019.