Mikel Arteta’s Persuasion Pays Off: Declan Rice ‘Flabbergasted’ in £105m Arsenal Transfer Talks

Declan Rice was left impressed and ‘bowled over’ by Mikel Arteta following their meeting in January, as reports suggest a breakthrough in Arsenal’s pursuit of the West Ham midfielder.

Arteta, having identified Rice as a priority target for the summer transfer window, has made significant progress in securing the player’s services, with Arsenal agreeing to a monumental £105 million deal with West Ham this week.

While Manchester City had initially posed a threat to Arsenal’s plans, their interest waned after West Ham rejected their £90 million offer, leaving Rice’s future hanging in the balance.

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According to reliable sources, Rice had already expressed his preference to join Arsenal this summer, even if other options were on the table, including a potential move to Pep Guardiola’s side at Manchester City.

Insiders reveal that Rice has personally met Arteta, and the Arsenal manager’s detailed plan to enhance the midfielder’s game and develop his skillset left a lasting impression on the 22-year-old.

The report further highlights that Arsenal’s coaching staff have recognized Rice as a ‘quick learner,’ cementing their belief in his potential for growth and adaptation at the club.

Emile Smith Rowe, an Arsenal midfielder, has endorsed the Gunners’ pursuit of Rice, speaking highly of his abilities and leadership qualities.

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Smith Rowe recalled his first training camp where he witnessed Rice’s exceptional skills, hailing him as the standout performer on the pitch.

In addition to the imminent capture of Declan Rice, Arsenal is on the brink of finalizing a £40 million deal for Ajax defender Jurrien Timber.

The Gunners’ quest to reinforce their defensive options has led Arteta to target Timber, a versatile player capable of operating centrally or on the right side of the defense.

With Rice’s potential arrival and the potential addition of Jurrien Timber, Arsenal’s squad overhaul under Arteta is gaining momentum, as the manager looks to assemble a formidable team capable of challenging for silverware in the upcoming season.