Arsenal is emerging as a potential destination for Declan Rice, with Mikel Arteta keen on acquiring the West Ham captain’s services. The Gunners are reportedly preparing to make a formal bid of around $100 million for the England international, edging out competition from the likes of Bayern Munich and Manchester United.

Arteta, known for his determined approach, may have a secret weapon up his sleeve in the pursuit of Rice. Mirror Football previously reported that Arsenal’s top hierarchy saw Jack Wilshere, a former teammate of Rice at West Ham, as a potential influencer in the transfer negotiations.

Wilshere, now part of Arsenal’s academy coaching staff, shares a close relationship with Rice, and his public endorsement of the midfielder joining Arsenal added fuel to the speculations. Wilshere stated that Rice would thrive under Arteta’s guidance and be a significant asset to the team.

While Rice has remained tight-lipped about his future, West Ham owner David Sullivan revealed that they have promised him a potential move and are prepared to find a replacement. The situation suggests that the Europa Conference League final could mark Rice’s last appearance for the club.

As Arsenal positions themselves as an attractive destination, aided by Arteta’s strategic tactics and Wilshere’s support, the pursuit of Declan Rice’s signature continues to unfold.

“Anyone who supports any club would want Dec to join. If I’m talking from a selfish point of view, in north London, I think he would be very good under Mikel’s watch,” Wilshere declared.

“Mikel would develop him, bring him on even more and he would be massive for the team as well. I have had conversations with Dec and told him what he is doing in unbelievable, he is captain of a big Premier League club and is always learning. “I’m looking forward to wherever he goes. I hope it is Arsenal, it would be a massive signing and a perfect fit.”