da doce： Arsenal are reportedly in talks with Takehiro Tomiyasu over a new contract.

da heads bet： Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Arsenal in talks over new Tomiyasu dealDefender's current contract expires in 2025Arteta praises defender after Lens win(C)Getty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?

The Japanese international joined Arsenal from Serie A team Bologna in 2021 and despite having a number of injuries since then, he is something of a fan favourite at the Emirates off the back of his impressive displays.

Now, The Athletic claims the 25-year-old and the Gunners are expected to reach an agreement over a new deal in due course. His current terms expire in 2025, although the north London outfit have an option to extend it by a further 12 months.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

If Tomiyasu, who has made 71 appearances for the club, were to sign a new contract, that would cap off a successful year of important players extending their stay with the Gunners. In February, Gabriel Martinelli signed a new deal until 2027, Bukayo Saka followed suit in May, and Martin Odegaard put pen to paper until 2028 in September. If Arsenal want to win trophies again, retaining their top talent, whilst strengthening the squad as well, is vital.

(C)Getty ImagesDID YOU KNOW?

In early November, Tomiyasu was selected as Arsenal's monthly MVP for October by fan voting, making it his second award since September 2021.

WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

Arsenal return to Premier League action on Saturday at home to Wolves, seeking to maintain their spot at the top of the table.