Arsenal is close to finalizing a new long-term contract with its manager, Mikel Arteta, according to reliable sources. The current deal, which is set to expire in nine months, has left fans eager for an official announcement. Arteta has already expressed his commitment to the club, saying he is "very happy here" and that the timing of the contract will not be an issue. Arsenal's chief executive, Richard Garlick, has suggested that the new deal will be confirmed soon, calling it "a matter of time." Since taking charge in December 2019, Arteta has transformed Arsenal from a club that had lost its Champions League status into a team that won the Premier League for the first time in 22 years last season. The club is currently favored to retain its domestic title and is seen as a strong contender to win its first-ever Champions League this season. Arteta is widely considered the most influential figure at the club, with his influence evident across the squad and the club's operations. His approval is required for any major decision involving the first team. Arteta's current contract is worth £10 million per season, with an additional £5 million if the club qualifies for the Champions League. The new deal is expected to significantly increase his earnings, potentially making him one of the highest-paid managers in world football. The club's American owners have shown a strong commitment to investing in elite talent, as seen in the summer signings of Bruno Guimaraes and Ezri Konsa. Even failed attempts to sign players like Vinicius Jr. and Julian Alvarez reflect the club's ambition to support Arteta's vision for the team. Arteta's tenure at Arsenal has already made him the longest-serving manager in the Premier League and EFL. A new contract would extend his time at the club, possibly bringing him closer to a decade in north London. Although there have been rumors about a potential return to Spain, Arteta appears content at Arsenal, where he has built a successful squad at its peak. His continued presence is seen as crucial to maintaining the club's current momentum and achieving further success.