Declan Rice sent Arsenal transfer message by ex-West Ham academy ace

Former West Ham academy star Sebastian Lletget has urged Declan Rice to join Arsenal despite heavy interest from other Premier League clubs. The English midfielder has long been touted as one of the best in his position and is set to make a big-money move away from the Hammers this summer.

Arsenal have tabled two bids for the 24-year old, the most recent coming in at £105 million. This bid has caused Manchester City to withdraw their interest after being unwilling to match the price.

The move will be a Premier League record fee for a British player, usurping that of the £100 million deal which saw Jack Grealish join the Citizens in 2021. Manchester United were also linked with a move for the player but are yet to submit an official bid.

Rice’s stock will have only increased following last season’s Europa Conference League triumph. Rice was West Ham’s third-ever club captian to lift a major trophy, joining such iconic names as Bobby Moore and Billy Bonds.

With Arsenal looking the likely destination of Rice, ex-West Ham academy star Lletget believes the Emirates would suit better than other Premier League rivals. “Those are great options [Arsenal, Man City, and Man Utd],” Lletget said speaking exclusively to Daily Express US Sport.

“Sometimes you wish it was just one team and then it’s a clear option. I think it’s where the most growth you can make, you know? It’s the right balance of challenge and growth.

“It’s so tough. Do you want to be coached by Pep or do you want to be coached by Arteta? It’s a really good problem [to have]. I would choose Arsenal.”

Don’t miss…
Man Utd set timeline for Andre Onana transfer as Erik ten Hag ‘in a hurry'[LATEST]
Harry Kane ‘picks next club’ as Man Utd consider rivalling Bayern Munich[REPORTS]
Arsenal have Chelsea to blame as £100m+ Declan Rice transfer pursuit heats up[REVEALED]

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Born in San Francisco, California, Lletget moved to England in 2009 after being spotted by scouts from West Ham’s academy. The now 30-year-old spent six years in East London where he made just one appearance.

In search of more gametime Lletget moved back to the US and joined MLS side LA Galaxy where he earned 177 caps, scoring 30 goals and providing 20 assists.

The Californian has since joined New England Revolution and is now plying his trade at FC Dallas. In addition to his club career, Lletget has achieved 33 caps for the USMNT which included helping the side to win a Gold Cup and a Nations League.

Source: Read Full Article