Arsenal are moving with purpose behind the scenes, with fresh optimism growing over new deals for Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber. According to TeamTalk , the club are hopeful of making major progress during the November international break, with all three negotiations described as advancing in a positive direction.

For Arsenal, this is a significant piece of business. Squad building does not start and end with signings, it is equally defined by how effectively a club protects the spine of its existing group. In Rice, Odegaard and Timber, Mikel Arteta has three players who shape the structure, level and mentality of his side. Keeping them tied down is every bit as important as any move in the market.

The report states that Arsenal are “hopeful of finalising new contracts for Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber during the November international break”, with sources indicating there is confidence “the remaining details can be resolved in the coming weeks”. That language matters. It points to talks that are no longer exploratory, but increasingly focused on completion.

Rice has become one of the defining figures of Arteta’s Arsenal. Since arriving, he has brought authority, athleticism and reliability to the midfield, while also adding personality in high-pressure moments. Arsenal see him as a cornerstone of the project and it is no surprise that securing his long-term future is a major priority.

His current deal runs until 2028, as do those of Odegaard and Timber, yet Arsenal are clearly intent on moving early. That reflects both strategic planning and a desire to remove noise before the January window. TeamTalk reports that Arsenal are “determined to ensure his long-term future remains at the Emirates”, a stance that underlines how central Rice is to the next phase of the club’s development.

There is a broader message in this, too. Elite clubs do not wait for uncertainty to become a problem. They act well in advance, especially when it comes to players viewed internally as foundational. Rice falls firmly into that category.

Odegaard’s importance extends beyond his output. As captain, he is a technical reference point and a cultural one. His understanding of Arteta’s demands, his leadership in the dressing room and his influence between the lines make him one of the most valuable players in the squad.

TeamTalk says Arsenal are “similarly encouraged by the progress of negotiations with Rice and Odegaard”, adding that “both players have been central to Arteta’s plans”. That feels entirely in keeping with the reality on the pitch. Odegaard is the player who often gives Arsenal rhythm and clarity in possession, and his long-term commitment would be another strong signal of stability.