West Ham’s Declan Rice and Mikel Arteta linked as six other clubs named in the race
West Ham captain Declan Rice and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta are said to share a mutual admiration, as six other clubs’ chances of landing the midfielder were assessed by the Guardian.
Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Manchester City, Newcastle, Liverpool and Chelsea were all listed, ranging from serious contenders to also-rans.
Whilst a move is expected to materialise in the coming weeks, for now, the focus of the player and West Ham is on tomorrow night’s massive Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina in Prague.
The report from Jacob Steinberg for the Guardian detailed the latest developments in the race to land the classy England international.
“Lately, there have been discussions with Thomas Tuchel about Bayern Munich, although a move to Germany is regarded as unlikely,” he said
“Rice, who is extremely close to his family, became a father last summer. His preference is to stay in England and the smart money remains on him joining Arsenal. There is mutual admiration between Rice and Mikel Arteta.
“Arsenal have the upper hand. Manchester United could make a late move, but their focus is on signing a striker. Liverpool have other targets in midfield. Pep Guardiola has spoken to Rice, but Manchester City are not seeking to replace Rodri.
“Newcastle’s interest is unlikely to go far. As for Chelsea, they are not in Europe next season and the prospect of losing Mason Mount has not helped their chances of buying his best friend. Arsenal, who are about to make space for Rice by selling Granit Xhaka, are the cleanest choice.”
Control
Rice is fully intent on securing his West Ham legacy by lifting the Europa Conference League trophy on Wednesday night.
He has been a driving force for the Hammers this season, just as he has over recent years as he firmly established himself for club and country.
The player will either thoroughly enjoy the aftermath of West Ham’s first major success since 1980, or reflect on a massive missed opportunity, win or lose.
Either way, he needs time to process the end of his career at the London Stadium and that will happen soon after the dust settles on this amazing European odyssey that has taken David Moyes’ side all over the continent in the past 10 months.
Arguably, they wouldn’t have done it without their main man.
In the coming weeks, activity on what will be one of the biggest deals in football will be ramped up, ahead of the next stage in Rice’s career.