David James has claimed that Declan Rice would prefer to sign for Manchester City ahead of Arsenal this summer.
As things stand, the two clubs are battling it out to sign the West Ham United midfielder, with the Gunners having two bids rejected and the Citizens reportedly preparing their own move for him.
This has since led to one former City player sharing his thoughts on the matter.
James dismisses Arsenal move for Rice
Speaking to Football Daily, James had this to say about Rice and the potential choice he’s facing in terms of which club he could be joining the summer.
He said: “Declan Rice is top-drawer and Man City are the best team in Europe, probably going to be the best team in the world in a few months after they win the World Club Championship and if Declan Rice is part of that its because he deserves to be so all the best to him if it happens.
“Why would he want to play for Arsenal? One team’s a European, FA Cup, Premier League champions, the other is none.”
Earlier this week, it was reported that Arsenal’s second bid, worth up to £90m, was turned down by the Hammers, who apparently value their captain at £120m.
With City now in the frame to sign the Englishman, it would seemingly take a significant transfer offer if they want to secure a deal for him.
In terms of Rice’s choice of which team he would possibly like to join this summer, it would be safe to assume that he would have more of a chance of winning silverware with Pep Guardiola’s side given how domestically dominant they have been in recent years.
Having also now won their first Champions League title, this further highlights their status as one of the best sides in Europe right now and why the 24-year-old could be tempted to become part of this current group of winners at the Etihad.
