Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta could reportedly become one of the highest-paid managers in the Premier League if he signs a new contract with the club.
Arteta has one year left on his current deal at the Emirates Stadium and has established himself as one of Europe's top young managers.
The North London club brought in the former Manchester City assistant manager back in 2019, and he hit the ground running, winning the FA Cup in his first season at the helm.
Additionally, the 42-year-old Spaniard has been key to assembling the Gunners youthful and exciting squad, who have competed for the Premier League title over the last two seasons, including finishing just two points behind Manchester City in 2023-24.
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Mikel Arteta set to become one of Premier League's highest-paid managers
According to Football Insider, Arsenal are still impressed by the progress being made by Arteta and are now in negotiations over a new long-term contract for their manager.
While an exact figure has yet to be confirmed, the report adds that Arteta's current £9m a season deal will increase significantly, bringing him closer to the staggering £20m a season package that Pep Guardiola currently pockets at the Etihad Stadium.
It is understood that initial informal talks regarding a new contract have commenced, but they are expected to intensify once Arteta and sporting director Edu return from their respective vacations.
Arteta is believed to be in a strong position to negotiate a sizeable deal given his status as one of the best managers in Europe, but the club is confident they will be able to strike a deal with the Spaniard fairly soon.
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Arteta considered one of Europe's top young managers
In addition to discussing salary, all parties are expected to outline their ambitions for the club's future as they strive to re-establish themselves among Europe's elite teams.
The Gunners board will likely also be keen to get Arteta's commitment as soon as possible, with Guardiola potentially entering his final season with Man City next term.
Given Arteta's prior tenure at the Etihad, it would not be surprising if the Gunners' manager is among the Premier League champions' list of targets should Guardiola depart.
Upon returning from holiday, Arteta is expected to be busy in the transfer market in search of a new number nine, with Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak reportedly on the club's radar.
Devesh Jaganath
