Arsenal defender handed new three-year deal

Arsenal defender Rob Holding has put pen-to-paper on a fresh three-year contract.

The centre-back was fancied to join Newcastle United on loan in the summer, but manager Mikel Arteta eventually blocked the move.

Holding has since been an integral part of the first-team plans and he has already made 18 appearances in all competitions.

Earlier this week, Arteta confirmed that the club were negotiating a new deal with Holding and the same has now been made official.

"We are all very happy that Rob has signed a new contract, he is very popular with all the players and staff and we’re looking forward to watching him continue to grow with us in the coming years," Arteta said.

Holding has signed a new deal until the summer of 2024. He has started the last seven league games for the club and has recently kept back-to-back clean sheets.

Pablo Mari has been his central defensive partner in the past three league games which the Gunners have won. Arteta could go with the same pairing for the league meeting against Crystal Palace on Thursday.