Declan Rice nears new Arsenal contract amid injury concerns

Arsenal is in the final stages of negotiating a new contract with midfielder Declan Rice. The deal is expected to include a significant salary increase, potentially raising his annual earnings from approximately €14.8 million to €21.5 million, placing him among the club's highest earners.

However, concerns have emerged regarding Rice's fitness. Footage captured by a supporter at Emirates Stadium during a recent victory over Everton shows the 27-year-old holding his hamstring and limping before being substituted in the 80th minute. Rice has been managing lower back and hamstring issues since last Christmas, including nerve pain reported during his time with the England national team.

While it is unclear if the substitution was a precautionary measure, the injury news follows Rice's recent involvement in high-stakes matches, including a late goal against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Arsenal also faces potential squad depth issues as Riccardo Calafiori sustained a knock during the same match.