Declan Rice ‘sold the dream’ to quit West Ham with Arsenal transfer decision made – ExWHUemployee
Declan Rice’s preferred destination is Arsenal if a move away from the London Stadium is to materialise this summer, according to ExWHUemployee.
In a post on The West Ham Way Patreon page on 13 June, the reliable Hammers insider reported that despite interest from Manchester City, Arsenal is a better option for both Rice and his young family.
It is widely reported that Rice will leave West Ham this summer after the captain helped his side to lift their first major trophy in 43 years during last week’s Conference League win.
As reported by The Guardian (12 June), Arsenal are close to agreeing to a deal with the Hammers for their star player which could eventually cost the Gunners more than £100million.
And a post on The West Ham Way’s Patreon page has detailed some of Rice’s reasons for preferring a switch to North London rather than Manchester or abroad.
“He has his own custom-built house that he lives in with his girlfriend and son as well as other members of his family. Therefore a chance to stay in London is perfect to maintaining that happy home life,” the post read.
“I have been told that when he met Arteta he was sold the dream of how he would be the main man, potential captain in a few years with the side built around him. The family were said to be very impressed with Arsenal and what they had to offer.
“I believe similar conversations were had with Man City however they are like a production line and no player is guaranteed a role at the club because they are ever-revolving.”
Hard to resist
When you are offered promises as big as that by a club the size of Arsenal, it would certainly be a tricky proposal to try and turn down. With Rice also settled in London, it is not hard to imagine why he prefers a switch to the Gunners.
However, some may argue that he is more likely to win major honours at Manchester City, especially considering the club just completed a treble, so may question his choice.
Although, Rice may view Arsenal’s offer as an opportunity to lead the club into a golden generation and become a legend in North London rather than just another player at Man City.
It is clear that factors such as leadership are important to Rice and Arteta is quite obviously desperate for the player’s signature if he is willing to make these promises and sanction such a substantial deal, which may flatter the midfielder.
If Rice does make the switch to Arsenal, there will certainly be a lot of pressure on the 24-year-old’s shoulders.