ARSENAL: Declan Rice Emerges Priority Target As Balogun Makes Major Demand

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, reportedly in the market for midfield recruits this summer, has identified West Ham midfielder Declan Rice as a priority target.

Despite expected interest from Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea, new reports suggest that Arsenal may have the upper hand in the race for Rice’s signature.

Rice admires Arsenal’s style of play.

According to journalist Miguel Delaney, Rice “admires” the way Arsenal play and has raved about the team while watching matches with his West Ham teammates.

Delaney said: “Rice is meanwhile said to be a particular admirer of how Arsenal play, seeing that as one of the best approaches in European football right now.”

This admiration for Arsenal’s style of play could give the Gunners an edge in signing the 22-year-old midfielder.

Read also: Arteta Triggers Arsenal’s £22m Chase For Attacking Dynamo

Balogun wants first-team minutes.

Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has been the subject of interest from European clubs following his successful loan spell at Reims, during which he scored 19 league goals. The 21-year-old is expected to return to the Emirates at the end of the season, where a decision will be made about his future.

However, according to Football Insider, Balogun has made it clear that he does not want to return to Arsenal next season unless he is guaranteed first-team minutes. This could prove difficult, given the presence of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah on the team.