Arsenal transfer news: Declan Rice open to Chelsea move

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West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice is open to a move to Graham Potter’s Chelsea, while Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal could have to persuade him to switch to the Emirates Stadium in the summer of 2023, according to GiveMeSport.

The report has claimed that both Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in signing England international midfielder Rice from London and Premier League rivals West Ham United at the end of the season.

The 24-year-old defensive midfielder was on the books of Chelsea from 2006 until 2014 before he joined West Ham.

The England international, who can also play as a defender, ‘is open to the prospect of returning to his childhood club’, according to the report.

GiveMeSport report: “Rice is open to the prospect of returning to his childhood club but, of course, if Arsenal become Premier League champions their position is suddenly strengthened.

“Their rise under Mikel Arteta has been impressive but consider too they still like Youri Tielemans and have other good value prospects on the radar too.

“Rice would also need convincing this season is not a one-off—as Chelsea have a track-record to trust as well as the future vision.”

West Ham reportedly want £75 million in transfer fees for Rice, described as “perfect” by former Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy on talkSPORT in January 2023.

Arsenal or Chelsea for Declan Rice?

In our view, it would be tough for West Ham United star Declan Rice to choose between Arsenal and Chelsea in the summer of 2023, if indeed both the Gunners and the Blues made their moves.

Both Arsenal and Chelsea are big clubs and global brands, and both of them are very appealing.

While Arsenal could win the Premier League title this season, Chelsea regularly become champions of England and clinched the UEFA Champions League under then manager Thomas Tuchel not so long ago.

It could eventually come down to which club is prepared to pay more transfer fee and salary as well as make the better pitch in terms of short-term and long-term success.