Richard Keys shares expensive verdict as Declan Rice makes West Ham United exit decision
Richard Keys believes the transfer of Declan Rice from West Ham United to Arsenal will be the signing of the summer.
The pundit has predicted that the “statement” signing of the England international could result in the Gunners lifting a trophy next season.
Midfielder Rice has completed a switch to Arsenal worth £100million plus £5million in add-ons, joining on a five-year contract.
“It’s a lot of money – but I don’t think any club will make a better signing than Declan Rice this summer,” Keys wrote on Twitter.
“He’s a Rolls-Royce. It’s a real statement of intent by Arsenal. I’ve got a feeling they might be celebrating next season.”
Big move
Rice’s transfer to Arsenal represents a huge move for all parties involved, with the player himself finally earning that lucrative deal that his West Ham displays over the years have deserved.
For the Gunners, the club-record £105million shows just how highly manager Mikel Arteta values the player and what he thinks he is capable of in North London in the near future.
And finally, the Hammers will, of course, be gutted to be losing their star man, but at the same time will be licking their lips at the thought of what they can do with so much money.
It must be spent wisely, but there should be plenty of players out there who will want to make the switch to the London Stadium in the knowledge that a regular midfield spot is up for grabs.
Moreover, the club should be in for an exciting season due to their Premier League hopes and their participation in the Europa League.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have pocketed a financial windfall as £160million FIFA news emerges.