Arsenal star told to ‘force a move away’ after Bukayo Saka decision | Football
TL;DR – Two-minute read
Bukayo Saka signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal on 19 February 2026, becoming the club’s highest paid player with wages exceeding £300,000 per week. Meanwhile, Adrian Durham suggested that Declan Rice should demand a new contract or consider leaving the club after Saka’s deal, highlighting Rice’s contributions since his £105 million transfer in 2023.
Bukayo Saka has signed a new contract with Arsenal, becoming the club’s highest-paid player with wages exceeding £300,000 a week. The announcement was made this week and is significant given Arsenal’s ongoing pursuit of four trophies this season under manager Mikel Arteta.
Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham for £105 million in 2023, is reportedly unhappy with his contract situation. Adrian Durham, host on talkSPORT, stated that Rice should consider demanding a move away from the club if he does not receive a new contract comparable to Saka’s.
Durham commented on the contrast between Saka’s contract and Rice’s situation, stating, “he must be fuming that his ‘commitment and quality has been totally disrespected.” He added that Rice’s contributions have made him a vital component of the team, arguably more so than Martin Ødegaard.
Regarding Rice’s potential reactions, Durham advised that if he were Rice’s agent, he would push manager Mikel Arteta for clarity on the midfielder’s position. He further stated that Rice deserves a substantial contract and that there are numerous clubs across Europe willing to recognise his talents.
Currently, Arsenal are focusing on their upcoming matches as they seek to build on their strong season.