Arsenal are thought to be closing in on their record transfer, and certainly their most important one under Mikel Arteta. Declan Rice will soon be inducted into the Emirates Stadium, given the desire from Arteta and the Gunners to sign him.
It was no secret that Mikel Arteta wanted to sign Rice. In fact, Rice’s name has cropped up more times in the media in the last few months than any other player. Despite the slight inconvenience from Manchester City’s interest and opening bid in the end, they were nothing to worry about.
Although, there’s been an additional layer which reveals the true extent behind Mikel Arteta’s interest in signing Declan Rice. According to a report from The Times, Rice met Arteta in January to discuss the future of Rice as a player and Arsenal as a club. It’s thought that the conversation went well, with Rice impressed by Arteta’s desire and Arteta impressed by Rice’s eagerness to learn.
🚨 @FabrizioRomano, speaking on Declan Rice: “I’m told that this deal for Declan Rice is really, really close now,” he said. “The agreement between Arsenal and West Ham is in place for the fee – £105 million. They’re negotiating on the payment terms and deal structure.”
— afcsphere (@afcsphere) July 1, 2023
🗣️ “But… pic.twitter.com/HTkZAqTool
Declan Rice ended his lengthy spell at West Ham in the most poetic way. Becoming a European champion – albeit a Conference League champion – will forever solidify Rice’s place in West Ham folklore, for many decades to come.
However, if truth be told, Rice has been ready to take the next step in his career for some years now. He’s always been described as the best player outside of the Premier League top six, so it’s now time for the England international to prove his worth at a big club.
Do you think Declan Rice will succeed at Arsenal?