Arsenal man pens new contract in bizarre hushed up deal

Nacho Monreal Granit Xhaka TEAMtalk

Nacho Monreal could remain at Arsenal until 2021 after reports suggested the full-back has penned a new deal.

The veteran defender looked destined to leave The Emirates this summer with the widespread opinion that his deal was to expire on June 30.

Now though The Sun report that the 33-year-old has a new one-year deal in place, with the option of a further 12 months. What’s more, the tabloid claim the Spaniard “penned fresh terms with the North London club earlier this year”.

Arsenal are yet to officially announce the deal, but the report claims “there were no problems with negotiations” with Monreal agreeing to remain on his £65,000-a-week wages.

Gunners boss Unai Emery will have the option to extend the deal by another 12 months next season.

Monreal, who has been pictured in the new Arsenal home shirt, had been linked with a return to Spain with Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao understood to be interested.

Last summer the Pamplona-born defender confirmed that he was in talks with the Gunners over a new deal amid shock interest from Barcelona.

“At the moment we are talking with the club,” the Evening Standard quoted him as saying.

“I’ve always said I am really happy, I feel very happy playing for Arsenal. I came six years ago. I have a good relationship with them.

“We are in contact in any moment so don’t worry about that. I am happy here. That is the most important thing.”