Arsenal’s main transfer target revealed as Chelsea forward rejects offer

It’s going to be a busy summer transfer window for Arsenal, who have maximised the opportunities presented to them in recent windows. They’ve signed big-name players such as Gabriel Jesus, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Leandro Trossard and others. Now, Mikel Arteta is hungry for more, despite being top of the league and favourites to win it.

It was revealed on Tuesday that Arsenal were interested in signing Raheem Sterling from Chelsea, should the opportunity to do so presented itself. However, today those rumours have been put to bed.

According to Sky Sports, representatives of Raheem Sterling have dismissed claims that he’s unhappy at Stamford Bridge. Therefore, he does not have any hopes of joining Arsenal, even with the bad form Chelsea are showing anymore.

So, time to move on. It’s probably a good thing for Arteta actually – Sterling has never truly hit the world-class heights he could have, and he’s shown little to no loyalty throughout his career so far. He’s welcome to Chelsea.

There is some positive transfer news today, though. According to the Times (subscription required), Declan Rice is at the top of Arsenal’s transfer list. The West Ham United midfielder is likely to cost around £80m, a fee which the Gunners are willing to pay to solidify their midfield for the coming years.

Declan Rice is 25 years old and entering his prime. Therefore, Arsenal see him as the perfect option since he’s Premier League proven and would slot straight into the first team, although adjustments will need to be made.

The Gunners midfield has been fairly consistent this season, allowing for injuries and suspensions. Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey has more often than not been the central midfield pairing of choice under Mikel Arteta and it’s worked out well. Of course, Declan Rice will do nothing but improve that.

Do you think Arsenal are right to prioritise Declan rice?