Arsenal Newsnow: Chelsea midfielder Declan Rice has been linked with a summer transfer to Arsenal
Arsenal Newsnow: Both Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in acquiring Declan Rice. In an interview with Give Me Sport, Dean Jones said that Arsenal is the frontrunner to sign the 24-year-old defensive midfielder from West Ham United.
Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal, has made the signing of Declan Rice, a dependable backup for Thomas Partey, a top priority. Rice would be a fantastic addition for Arsenal as they want to strengthen their midfield.
The 24-year-old has already demonstrated his worth to West Ham and England. Thus, making him one of the most promising young midfielders in the league. The £80 million-rated star has been linked to a move back to Stamford Bridge. And Chelsea may or may not be able to entice him with a substantial offer.
He said: “A lot can happen in the next two months until the end of the season. That one could go either way, but Arsenal feel like they’re in the lead for that at the moment. So, Chelsea might have to turn their attentions elsewhere, which will be to Lavia first and foremost.”
Arsenal Newsnow: Will the Gunners get him?
But, Arsenal is currently leading the Premier League and would be a more desirable destination if they were to win the title. Rice hopes to sign with a Champions League team. The Gunners will almost certainly participate in the European competition next year.
Nonetheless, Chelsea is now eighth in the league. However, finishing in the top four and qualifying for the Champions League is quite improbable. At this point, Arsenal is clearly in the first place, ahead of Chelsea by a wide margin. It is unclear whether they will be able to pass an agreement in the coming months.
What’s next?
Arsenal should strive to add more depth to their assault in order to compete on all fronts next season. This season, Mikel Arteta has been unable to implement frequent roster changes. Arsenal, then, cannot afford to enter the upcoming season with the same roster they used last year.
The absence of another defensive midfield specialist has forced the Gunners to rely too much on Partey. Arteta will be able to give his star players a break now and again thanks to Rice’s arrival. Arsenal’s defence would be strengthened. The team’s creative players would have more room to flourish. They have high hopes that a player worth £80 million will join them.
