News of Mikel Arteta's agreement over a new deal at Arsenal will not come as a shock - but it is a major development nevertheless.

The fact his existing deal expires at the end of the season did put a slightly greater emphasis on the speed of discussions than normal.

But Arteta has been transparent about his desire to stay at the club beyond the end of this campaign.

Dynasty building is what has driven Arteta's decision. Winning Arsenal's first Premier League title in 20 years last season is viewed as just the start.

Coming within a penalty kick of winning their first Champions League came as a gut-wrenching blow - but also a huge motivation.

With that in mind, there was never a sense Arteta was preparing to walk away from the team he has built to become one of the best in European football.

So with a deal for their manager to stay now agreed, the foundation of Arsenal's recent revitalisation into a football force remains in place.

Does more history beckon? Arteta is committed to finding out.