Mikel Arteta confirms Arsenal are ‘working hard’ in talks over new Ben White contract

Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal are “working hard” in talks with Ben White over a new contract.

The club have turned their attention to the defender after securing the long-term futures of Aaron Ramsdale, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Odegaard and William Saliba.

White has established himself as one of Arteta’s most consistent performers since joining the Gunners from Brighton for £50m in the summer of 2021.

Despite the fact the 26-year-old still has just under three years to run on his current deal, there is an acceptance he should be rewarded for his form.

Arteta is a big fan of the player, who is regarded as one of the best trainers at the club.

White initially joined as a central defender and played there during his first season at the Emirates Stadium before moving to right-back and developing an excellent partnership with Saka.

Asked about the state of play regarding White’s new contract, Arteta said: “We are always trying to keep the squad in a healthy position in any way, and the club and Edu especially are working on that.”