‘Shock’ new role on the cards for Declan Rice at Arsenal with West Ham United exit close
Outgoing West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice has been mooted with a position change upon his arrival at Arsenal, according to The US Sun.
The Hammers captain and England international is closing in on a £105million summer transfer from East to North London.
But he could be in for a new role at the Gunners, having been used to playing in defensive midfield in claret and blue.
“The £105million man has been tipped to fire Arsenal to the Premier League title in a shock role” according to The U.S. Sun. “With the impending departure of Granit Xhaka, Rice has been tipped to replace the Swiss midfielder and take up a new role.
“Having previously starred for West Ham in a two-man midfield in front of the defence, Rice would slot into the left side of a three if he takes up Xhaka’s position.
“The new role would see the 24-year-old play as a number eight, rather than as a number six, where he has featured so far in his career.”
More than capable
Rice is well associated with a defensive midfield role, with the Hammers ace becoming one of the best players in world football in his position in recent years, both for club and country.
His displays for the London Stadium club and for the Three Lions have now earned him a mega-money move to Arsenal, but that may not be his only change next season, with Rice potentially pushing slightly further forward under Mikel Arteta.
The Hammers captain has proven his ability at tackling, breaking down possession and keeping things ticking over time and again, but he may now be tasked with adding a few more goals and assists to his game at the Gunners.
It is a transition that Xhaka achieved expertly, with the veteran midfielder scoring nine goals and registering seven assists in all competitions last season.
Rice is definitely capable of that, with the young midfielder only going to get better as time goes on, particularly under the tutelage of Arteta.
In other West Ham news, Said Benrahma has sent a two-word message to an Atletico star after his social media post.