Report: Nacho Monreal signs new long-term contract

According to Radio Marca, via Arseblog News, Nacho Monreal has signed a new contract that will expire in 2019. The Spanish full back's contract had been due to run out in 18-months' time, but following his emergence as the first-choice left back, the club and player have acted to tie down his future in North London.

Monreal will be 33 when his contract expires, but given his playing style is predicated on intelligence and technique, rather than physicality and pace, a slowing down to age doesn't seem that worrisome. Furthermore, it signifies a new willingness for Arsenal to keep key players at the club despite age, with Mikel Arteta, Per Mertesacker, Santi Cazorla and Petr Cech having all been key players for the club in their early 30s.

Furthermore, it gives more credence to recent reports that Arsenal are interested in Leicester left back Ben Chilwell. The 19-year old, who played against Tottenham this afternoon, would represent a possible long-term replacement.