Arsenal are preparing for the January transfer window, with club executives considering how to strengthen Mikel Arteta's squad. Scouts remain active across Europe, while contract discussions continue at home.
Rice contract talks progress
Arsenal hope to secure Declan Rice on a new contract before the end of the international break. The 27-year-old, who joined from West Ham in a nine-figure deal in 2023, has become a key player and is set to be rewarded with a new long-term agreement.
The Guardian reports the club holds an option to extend his current deal, which expires in 2028, by 12 months, but prefers a new long-term contract. FootballTransfers indicate parties are close to an agreement, with a new deal for Rice following Arteta's own contract extension.
Dowman loan interest from Celtic and Rangers
Max Dowman could feature in an Old Firm derby before the season ends, with both Celtic and Rangers interested in a January loan. The 16-year-old has made two first-team appearances this season, scoring twice in the Carabao Cup against Ipswich.
Dowman turns 17 on New Year's Eve, making him eligible for a loan in January. TeamTalk reports both Glasgow clubs are prepared to take him, with over a dozen other clubs contacting Arsenal. Arteta is open to a loan, saying: “We will evaluate every six months, where we are and what is the best thing for him to do and then make the right decision.”
Arsenal monitoring Chelsea target Zechiel
Arsenal and Chelsea are both tracking Feyenoord's Gjivai Zechiel ahead of January. According to Caught Offside, both London clubs have scouted the 22-year-old central midfielder and Netherlands youth international.
Feyenoord rejected a €17m (£14.5m) bid from Lille over the summer. Zechiel is under contract until 2029, and the Dutch club will not let him leave on the cheap.
