Rice, now the record transfer for Arsenal, has made his move from West Ham.
The acquisition of England’s midfielder Declan Rice from West Ham for £105m, including £5m in add-ons, has been officially confirmed by Arsenal.
The announcement followed an open letter from the 24-year-old player to West Ham’s fans, expressing the difficulty of his decision to leave the club.
Rice has agreed to a five-year contract with Arsenal, which includes an option for an additional year.
“Over the last few seasons, I’ve kept a keen eye on Arsenal’s progression,” he shared. “While they only managed to secure fifth place two seasons ago, Mikel’s distinctive style of play was clearly visible.”
“The previous season saw them deliver a stellar performance, with Manchester City being the sole exception to their sweeping victories.”
‘Rice – Arsenal’s New Vieira, But Pressure Mounts on Gunners’
Rice has left West Ham after leading the team to a victorious Europa Conference League season last year.
This marks Arsenal’s third significant signing this summer, as they aim to improve upon their runner-up position in the previous Premier League season.
His recruitment follows Arsenal’s £65m deal for Germany’s Kai Havertz from Chelsea, and the possible £38.5m deal for Jurrien Timber, a defender from the Netherlands, from Ajax.
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, lauded Rice, saying, “He is a highly talented player, who has been consistently delivering high-level performances in the Premier League and for England over several seasons now.”
“Declan is not only bringing his undeniable quality to the club but also exhibits exceptional potential, and we foresee a very successful stint here at Arsenal,” he added.
“Despite being just 24, Declan’s extensive Premier League experience, his captaincy of an accomplished West Ham team, and his recent European trophy victory speak volumes of his capabilities. We are thrilled to welcome him aboard.”
Arsenal’s third attempt to secure Rice proved successful, with two preceding bids below West Ham’s £100m demand being rejected.
Manchester City, the Premier League champions, withdrew from the race to acquire Rice after their £90m bid was declined.
The upfront payment for Rice matches the £100m City paid Aston Villa for Jack Grealish in 2021.
The Premier League’s highest-ever transfer was the £105.6m Chelsea paid Benfica for Enzo Fernandez in January 2023.
Earlier this summer, Jude Bellingham moved from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid for a £88.5m fee, potentially increasing to £115m with add-ons.
Arteta’s Influence Crucial for Rice
Having scored 15 goals in 245 games for West Ham, Rice joined the team at the age of 14, following his release from Chelsea’s academy.
He signed his first professional contract with West Ham in December 2015, making his senior debut as a substitute on the final day of the 2016-17 Premier League season against Burnley. His first full start came that August against Southampton.
Rice took over the club’s captaincy after Mark Noble retired in 2022. His last season at the London Stadium saw him earning the title of the Europa Conference League’s player of the season, as West Ham ended their 43-year-long wait for a major trophy.
Rice, capped 41 times by England, participated in all of their matches at the previous year’s World Cup.
“In the world of football, extraordinary opportunities come up. It’s challenging to say no to major clubs like Arsenal,” admitted Rice.
“I am excited about the team that Mikel is building and I am eager to contribute to Arsenal’s future. I am ravenous for success and ready to dedicate my best years to this renowned club.”
He added: “Mikel has been a significant factor in my decision. I believe that he can bring out the best in me. I’m aware that I have more to give, and I am confident that he can help me reach the next level. I’m really looking forward to working with him.”
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Arsenal’s Ambition Reinforced – Analysis
According to Dr Rob Wilson, a football finance expert, the transfer fee, which is now in the nine figures, will inevitably turn heads.
This indicates that English talent continues to be highly sought after, particularly in the context of the league. He suggested that there might be an “English player tax” – the price for an equivalent foreign player might be around £80m.
With Declan Rice, a home-grown player who comprehends the Premier League and its competition, this so-called “English player tax” makes sense.
Furthermore, Arsenal’s return to the top six has motivated West Ham to seek additional revenue.
This transfer solidifies Arsenal’s ambitions and reflects the progress they’ve made in recent years. They have demonstrated their serious intent, and are willing to spend big on the right player.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Declan Rice transfer to Arsenal
Who has Arsenal recently signed from West Ham?
Arsenal has recently signed the England midfielder Declan Rice from West Ham.
What is the transfer fee for Declan Rice?
The transfer fee for Declan Rice is £100m plus £5m in add-ons, totalling to £105m.
What is the length of Declan Rice’s contract with Arsenal?
Declan Rice has signed a five-year contract with Arsenal, which includes an option for an additional year.
Who were the other major signings by Arsenal this summer?
Apart from Declan Rice, Arsenal also signed Germany’s Kai Havertz from Chelsea for a £65m deal and potentially Jurrien Timber, a Dutch defender, from Ajax for a fee that could rise to £38.5m.
How many times has Declan Rice been capped by England?
Declan Rice has been capped 41 times by England, playing in all of their matches at the previous year’s World Cup.
What has been Declan Rice’s career progression?
Declan Rice joined West Ham at the age of 14 after being released from Chelsea’s academy. He signed his first professional contract with West Ham in December 2015 and made his senior debut in the 2016-17 Premier League season. He took over as the club’s captain in 2022 after Mark Noble’s retirement.
Why did Declan Rice choose to move to Arsenal?
Declan Rice has stated that he is excited about the team that Mikel Arteta is building at Arsenal and is eager to contribute to the club’s future. He also acknowledged that Arteta’s influence was a significant factor in his decision to move.
More about Declan Rice transfer to Arsenal
- Declan Rice’s Player Profile
- Arsenal Football Club’s Official Site
- West Ham United’s Official Site
- Premier League’s Official Site
- Transfer News and Rumours
- UEFA Europa Conference League
6 comments
Can’t believe Rice’s left us like that… hurts, but 105m aint a small number, right? Good luck Dec, you’ve been brill for us!
Well, the gunners have gone and done it, innit? 105 mill for Rice?! That’s some serious cash right there. let’s hope he’s worth it.
Rice to Arsenal is big. but 105m is huge! Wonder how he’ll cope with the pressure. Hoping he can replicate his form from last season.
As a west ham fan, I’m gutted. But can’t blame Rice for moving on. Money’s in the game, it’s how it works. Anyway, good luck to him at arsenal.
Oh my days! We’ve got Declan Rice! Top signing by the boss. This season’s gonna be lit! Arteta is taking us places, mark my words…
With Havertz, Timber and now Rice, arsenal’s not messing about are they? Top 4 has gotta be in their sights now. Can’t wait for the season to start!