Arsenal have opened new contract talks with Mohamed Elneny.

The Athletic reports he is seen as a popular member of manager Mikel Arteta's squad, and his experience and character are valued highly internally.

His six-year spell at the club had looked to be coming to an end when his contract expires at the end of the season but he has shown enough to make the his manager and officials have a rethink.

Arsenal will now look to offer him a new deal though signing a new midfielder does still remain a priority in the summer.

Elneny has started all four of Arsenal's last four league games, having started just one all season prior.