Declan Rice: The Missing Piece in Arsenal’s Puzzle
Arsenal is a club that has been struggling to find its feet in the Premier League for some time now. However, with the arrival of Mikel Arteta in December 2019, things have started to look up for the Gunners. They have been on an upward curve ever since, and the club is now looking to make a statement by signing West Ham’s Declan Rice in a club-record £100million deal.
According to former Chelsea star Tony Cascarino, Rice could be the player that transforms Arsenal into serial winners. Cascarino believes that the 24-year-old could have the same impact at the Emirates as Liverpool duo Alisson and Virgil van Dijk have had at Anfield.
Rice is known to be Arsenal’s No.1 target this summer, and the Gunners have already had two bids rejected by West Ham. However, talkSPORT understands that the Hammers are encouraging Arsenal to make a third bid worth £100m to close the deal, with Manchester City yet to turn their interest into a formal offer.
Why Declan Rice?
Cascarino argues that Rice is exactly the type of player Arsenal are crying out for. He believes that Rice’s arrival would make a significant impact on the team’s performance, just like Alisson and Van Dijk did at Liverpool.
Rice is a versatile player who can play in midfield or defence. He is known for his excellent ball control, passing ability, and tactical awareness. He is also a natural leader and has captained West Ham on several occasions.
Arsenal has been lacking a dominant midfielder who can control the game and dictate the tempo. Rice could be the player that fills this void and brings stability to Arsenal’s midfield. He could also provide cover for Arsenal’s defence, which has been shaky at times.
Rice vs Manchester City
Cascarino believes that Rice would be a better fit at Arsenal than Manchester City. He argues that Rice would not be a first-team regular at City and could end up being a bit-part player, just like Jack Grealish was in his first season at the club.
While Manchester City is undoubtedly a more successful club than Arsenal, Rice’s playing time could be limited due to the quality of players at the club. At Arsenal, Rice would be a key player and would have more opportunities to showcase his talent.
Conclusion
Declan Rice could be the missing piece in Arsenal’s puzzle. His arrival would bring stability to Arsenal’s midfield and provide cover for their defence. He is a versatile player who can play in multiple positions, and his leadership qualities would be an asset to the team.
While Manchester City is a more successful club, Rice’s playing time could be limited if he joins them. At Arsenal, he would be a key player and would have more opportunities to showcase his talent.
Arsenal has already had two bids rejected by West Ham, but they are still keen on signing Rice. If they can make a third bid worth £100m and close the deal, Rice could be the player that transforms Arsenal into serial winners.