Mikel Arteta, the English Premier League-winning manager of Arsenal, is on the verge of becoming one of the highest-paid managers in world football after agreeing to a new contract. The Spaniard led the Gunners to their first league title in 22 years this season, with the championship confirmed on Tuesday night when Manchester City failed to defeat Bournemouth.
Contract Details and Pay Hike
Arteta's current deal was set to expire next summer, but negotiations over an extension are well advanced. The new agreement is expected to include a significant salary increase, bringing him closer to the top earners in the managerial world. Diego Simeone, the Atletico Madrid boss, is currently the highest-paid manager, earning £26 million per year. Arteta is tipped to receive a salary near that figure.
He currently earns around £10 million annually, plus an additional £5 million for qualifying for the Champions League. Pep Guardiola, Arteta's former mentor, earns approximately £20 million per year at Manchester City. Arteta will take over from Guardiola as the longest-serving Premier League manager when Guardiola departs City this summer.
Transfer Target: Eli Junior Kroupi
Arteta is also targeting a move for Bournemouth's teenage sensation Eli Junior Kroupi this summer, as he looks to strengthen his squad further. Kroupi scored the goal that sealed the title for Arsenal, as Bournemouth held Manchester City to a 1-1 draw on Tuesday. It is believed that Bournemouth will demand £80 million for the 19-year-old forward.
Kroupi has scored the most goals for a teenager in his debut Premier League season, netting his 13th against City. He has also changed agents ahead of the summer transfer window. Funds are expected to be made available for Arsenal to sign a marquee name.
