Arsenal 'zen' over Mikel Arteta contract situation - but relaxed stance could soon change with deal expiring in 2025

Arteta is believed to want to remain, and Arsenal wish to keep the Spaniard who has transformed the club since his appointment in December 2019. However, Arteta is yet to put pen to paper on a new deal that would extend his stay at Arsenal beyond the upcoming season, but the Gunners board are not panicking - yet. But, as per The Athletic, the longer the talks drag on, the more frantic the Arsenal board could become to keep Arteta at the helm.

On the contract situation, it is reported that despite Arteta's contract entering its final year, the situation is 'strangely zen'. All parties want to find an agreement and it is just a matter of timing to settle the finer details. However, it could become an issue if things drag on.

Contract discussions do take time and all reports suggest Arteta will continue in north London beyond this campaign. Yet, until those terms are sealed, uncertainty will hang over the Spaniard's future. With Pep Guardiola's contract at Manchester City also expiring at the end of the season, City may attempt a bold move to snatch away Guardiola's former assistant from their main title rivals. Barcelona have also been linked with a move with Arteta, although those rumours have subsided following the appointment of Hansi Flick.

Arteta is well and truly immersed in pre-season preparations and his side take on Manchester United on Saturday in their second game of their tour of the US. The Arsenal board will be hopeful of tying down their manager to new terms and clear up any doubts before the start of the season. Arsenal may be 'zen' and confident Arteta will remain at the club, but it is unclear how long that level of calm will remain as time ticks on.