According to The Times, Arsenal have made Declan Rice their top target heading into the summer.
The West Ham star has long been touted as one of the most promising midfield players in English football, and he’s been tipped for a top move for years at this point.
Rice is wanted by the Gunners, and there’s reason to believe he’d be a great fit for Arsenal.
Not only is he a talented player, he’s also tried to model his game on one of Arsenal’s greatest-ever players, Patrick Vieira.
Indeed, when speaking to Sky Sports a couple of years ago, Rice admitted that he watched Vieira and Yaya Toure in an attempt to improve his game.
Rice has studied Vieira
The England star discussed his game with Sky Sports.
‘I think a lot of people see me as a simple, basic player who gets it, gives it and protects the back four,” Rice said.
“I want to show that I can be exciting and I can take the ball forward. I have great athleticism.
“I’ve been watching the top players over the years, the Yaya Toures, the Vieiras.
“There’s a long way to go to get to that level. But the way they used to carry the ball up the pitch and drive their teams forward is something I have been trying to learn and add to my game.”
His replacement
For years Arsenal have been crying out for a Patrick Vieira replacement, and Rice could finally be that player.
Yes, Thomas Partey has been unreal this season, but as for a long-term Vieira successor, Rice could be the player Arsenal have been waiting for.
Of course, he has a long way to go before reaching that level, but under an elite coach alongside quality teammates, Rice could improve drastically at Arsenal.
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