Matthew Upson believes the level of interest in Declan Rice is ‘understandable’ as the West Ham United captain is ‘capable of anything’ as Arsenal target a summer transfer.
The Hammers skipper enjoyed another strong showing on the international stage on Friday night as England thrashed Malta 4-0. Rice anchored Gareth Southgate’s engine room in the UEFA European Championship qualifier superbly and displayed a mature match on the ball.
Rice followed up lifting the UEFA Europa Conference League title with West Ham on June 7 by orchestrating England’s midfield. All the while the 24-year-old is at the heart of a tug of war over his transfer. Friday’s Group C clash at Ta Qali was his 42nd Three Lions cap to date.
Declan Rice wants to secure a transfer to Arsenal
According to 90min earlier this month, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United are interested in securing Rice’s transfer from West Ham. The Irons also rejected an opening bid from the Gunners worth an initial £80m plus £10m in potential future add-ons.
Arsenal remain keen to secure Rice’s transfer from West Ham this summer, though, despite the Hammers wanting at least £100m. While The Times also reported earlier this week that Rice wants to join Arsenal. But the Irons expect Manchester City to table a bid of their own.
Rice had an instrumental role in West Ham’s efforts through the 2022/23 campaign with 50 appearances in all competitions. He also scored five goals and laid on four assists. While he also showed his attacking threat in Malta with Harry Kane winning a penalty from his shot.
Matthew Upson adored the England anchor in Malta
Upson adored what Arsenal transfer target Rice showed in Malta as the West Ham anchor shone for England. The ex-Gunners, Irons and Three Lions defender also believes his form in the Euro qualifier exemplified why so many teams are keen on the midfielder’s services.
“I just think Declan Rice is capable of anything really,” Upson told BBC Radio 5 Live. “That’s the level of interest that is around Rice at the moment, and it’s understandable.
“I think he’s added extra elements to his game. He is becoming very well-rounded as a player. He’s captain material, as well.”
Rice took up West Ham’s captaincy permanently last summer after Mark Noble retired. He had already held the Hammers’ armband on numerous occasions since first embracing the role at 20 years old in December 2019. David Moyes initially made Rice their vice-captain.
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