Arsenal have reportedly rewarded defender Rob Holding with a new long-term contract. The England Under-21 international has been with the Gunners for nearly two seasons and his performances have warranted a new extension with the club. In response to the renewal, Holding wrote on Twitter: “Delighted to have extended my contract with @arsenal. Really looking forward to the exciting years ahead. Thank you for all the support from everyone!”
Holding was a relative unknown when he first arrived from Bolton Wanderers in 2016 and his first competitive game was far from impressive as Liverpool clinched a 4-3 league victory. He has since developed his game on and off the pitch and the centre-back probably had his best performance during the FA Cup final triumph over Chelsea last term.
Despite this, the Englishman has not convinced Arsene Wenger into a regular role owing to his weaknesses against fast-paced forwards but he remains a top prospect to look forward alongside Calum Chambers, who was rewarded with a long-term deal of his own earlier this season.
Arsenal are certain to invest in the central defensive department after their away shambles this term but the future of Chambers and Holding appear assured on the back of their extensions. Aside from the pair, winter signing Konstantinos Mavropanos could be another to look forward to next season after the Greek put in a strong display in his Gunners debut against United.
The north London club are now sure to finish outside of the top four positions this season but they can still finish the campaign on a high by lifting the Europa League. However, for this, they require a strong showing on the road at Atletico Madrid after conceding a costly away goal during the 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium in the semi-final first leg.