Arsenal are reportedly optimistic about tying down Ben White to a new contract despite the defender still having over two years left on his current deal.
White joined Arsenal from Brighton & Hove Albion for a fee of around £50m back in 2021 and has established himself as a regular starter under Mikel Arteta.
The 26-year-old has made 104 appearances for The Gunners and has shown his versatility by featuring in central defence and at right-back.
According to a report from The Mirror, Arsenal have opened talks with White's representatives over new terms and it is understood that the negotiations are progressing positively.
The report adds that Arteta and The Gunners' sporting director Edu are eager to reward the England international for his performance and development since arriving at the Emirates Stadium.
It is understood that the club is determined to avoid past errors in allowing key players' contracts to drift into their final year, such as Aaron Ramsey, who joined Juventus on a free transfer back in 2019.
Arsenal have become more proactive in their efforts to retain their young talent, with the likes of William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and Reiss Nelson all penning new deals with the club in the past year.
Arteta's side took the lead in the Premier League standings last weekend with a 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers and will be back in action tonight when they head to Kenilworth Road to take on Luton Town.
Devesh Jaganath
