Arsenal transfer news: Star rejected European offers to sign new contract

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Mohamed Elneny reportedly rejected offers from Europe to sign a new contract with Arsenal, with the midfielder extending his stay in north London until 2024.

According to Fabrizio Romano, clubs in Italy and Spain had made offers to sign the 30-year-old in the January transfer window. However, despite being out with a long-term injury, Elneny opted to pen a new deal with Arsenal that will last until the end of next season.

Now Arsenal’s longest-serving player, Elneny has become a fan favourite over the years for his consistent performances in the UEFA Europa League and in cup competitions as well as for being a solid replacement for Thomas Partey.

However, even with Arsenal signing Jorginho on deadline day this January, Elneny has still decided to extend his contract with the club, with the Egyptian international rejecting some seemingly big offers from some major European clubs from Italy and Spain.

Indeed, with the Europa League set to return next month, Elneny could play a crucial role in Arsenal winning the European competition as well as provide important depth from the substitute bench in the midfield position for the likes of Partey and Jorginho.

And with Elneny signing a new deal, Mikel Arteta now knows he has insurance in the defensive midfield position if the Gunners fail to sign a long-term option for the role, with Arsenal currently linked with the likes of Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo.

Elneny signing a new Arsenal contract is a smart move from all parties

Arsenal are current favourites to qualify for the UEFA Champions League, and with a return to Europe’s elite club competition comes a need for squad depth, which is exactly why Elneny signing a new contract is such a smart move from the north London side.

The Egyptian is a solid player who can give the likes of Partey and Jorginho a much-needed break when needed, and for the League Cup and FA Cup, Elneny could be a guaranteed starter next season for what could be an exciting year for the Gunners.