Arsenal are extremely keen to bolster their midfield options during the summer transfer window, football.london understands and West Ham United star Declan Rice remains their priority.
The England international has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League in recent years, capable of playing as a lone number six, as well as in a more attacking box-to-box role. Gunners supporters have frequently debated which position he would be deployed in by Mikel Arteta if he does make the move to north London this summer and if Rice's previous comments are anything to go by, he would prefer to operate further up the field.
"I think a lot of people see me as a simple, basic player who gets it, gives it and protects the back four,” he told Sky Sports back in 2021. “I know, my teammates know and the manager knows what I’ve got in my locker.
READ MORE: Who is Mohamed Simakan? The 'next Raphael Varane' Arsenal are linked with in summer transfer
“I want to show that I can be exciting and I can take the ball forward. I have great athleticism.” Rice also admitted that he studies the likes of Arsenal icon Patrick Vieira, as well as Manchester City hero Yaya Toure - two of the best box-to-box midfielders that have graced the English top-flight.
"I’ve been watching the top players over the years, the Yaya Toures, the Vieiras", he added. "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."
READ NEXT:
Every word Mikel Arteta said on Zinchenko's injury, Xhaka's contract and Ramsdale
Joao Cancelo gives Mikel Arteta clear Arsenal transfer warning with Man City admission
Brighton handed huge blow as star player set to miss Arsenal clash amid Mikel Arteta title race
Latest Brighton injury news as seven miss Arsenal with major blow and Moises Caicedo plan
Transfer news LIVE: Latest news, views and rumours from Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham
