In a recent interview with Give Me Sport, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano offered an update on Arsenal and their pursuit of West Ham United star Declan Rice. Romano said,
“It probably feels like a bit of a setback on the surface that a first bid has been rejected, but it’s pretty normal that this happens, especially in such a high-profile transfer.
“I’m sure Arsenal fans are panicking a little bit, but I’m told that a second bid is likely to follow pretty quickly. I think there’s still confidence that Declan Rice will become an Arsenal player.”
Rice’s Brilliant Campaign At West Ham
Rice enjoyed a marvelous season at the London Stadium and deserves a ton of credit for helping the Hammers secure the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy recently. The English talent has found the back of the net five times and earned four assists in 50 appearances for the East London club in the previous campaign across multiple competitions.
The 24-year-old was a positive influence at both ends of the field based on his average of 2.1 tackles, 1.7 interceptions, 1.5 clearances, 1.0 shots, 1.0 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He was even accurate when distributing the ball from midfield based on his pass success rate of 88% in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
What Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Do With Regards To Rice?
Rice is a good tackler of the ball and can secure the ball back for his team in the middle of the park. He can scan the danger quickly and usually puts his foot through the ball when required.
The England international can shoot the ball well from long range and has got the eye to play a few decisive passes in the opposition half. He can make some energetic runs with the ball as well.
Rice will inject more quality into Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta‘s squad. He is good enough to help the Gunners compete for the Premier League title once again next season. Therefore, the North London club should think about launching a second offer for Rice as he is a world-class talent who could go on to become a success story at the Emirates Stadium in the future.
