Arsenal want to ‘unveil’ exceptional star as ‘first signing’ at the Emirates – Transfer Insider
According to transfer insider Dean Jones, Arsenal is keen on introducing Declan Rice as their initial acquisition at the Emirates Stadium in the upcoming summer.
Mikel Arteta aims to strengthen his Gunners team in preparation for their comeback to the Champions League in the following season.
Arsenal transfer news – Declan Rice
As per The Guardian, Arsenal is nearing an agreement with West Ham United regarding the transfer fee for Declan Rice. The potential deal, including additional payments, could surpass £100m.
In an interview with talkSPORT, West Ham United chairman David Sullivan confirmed that Declan Rice, the club captain, will depart from the London Stadium this summer. Rice played a pivotal role in leading the Hammers to victory in the Europa Conference League, with a 2-1 win over Fiorentina in Prague.
Should he make a move to the Emirates Stadium, Rice could potentially increase his weekly earnings from £60,000 to four times that amount.
Additionally, his transfer to Arsenal would set a new record fee for the north London club. Journalist Paul Brown recently stated to GIVEMESPORT that it seems Arsenal is the club Rice is most interested in joining during the summer transfer window.
According to Dean Jones, the acquisition of Declan Rice by Arsenal would demonstrate a strong determination and clear intention on the part of the Gunners to progress and advance as a team.
What Jones has said about Arsenal and Rice
Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “Arsenal’s aim is to unveil Declan Rice this summer as their first signing. I think that would show a clear intent for how this team wants to kick on. We don’t know if that will be possible or how the negotiating will go. But another reason to get this done quickly is the hijack threat.”
With Granit Xhaka likely to depart Arsenal for Bayer Leverkusen in the upcoming summer, it becomes crucial for the Gunners to secure the signing of Declan Rice. Matthew Upson, a pundit, describes Rice as “exceptional” and believes that his addition is necessary for Arsenal to maintain a healthy midfield depth for the next season.
Rice, who has earned 41 caps for England, has an impressive career record at West Ham with 245 appearances. Primarily occupying a holding midfield position, he has contributed 15 goals and 13 assists.
He has been an integral part of West Ham’s most successful period in recent years, including two top-seven Premier League finishes, a Europa League semi-final, and winning this season’s Europa Conference League.
Considering these achievements, Rice may feel that it is the right time to make a move to a Champions League-caliber club and challenge himself on the grandest stage.
Arsenal want to ‘unveil’ exceptional star as ‘first signing’ at the Emirates – Transfer Insider