Declan Rice, after some wobbling at the start, has become one of Arsenal’s most important players. – Arsenal, who in the summer of 2023 bought Rice from West Ham for £100 million, are “forced” to think what they require to sell.
A top European club is knocking.
The England international was already one of the greats when he left West Ham after winning the UEFA Conference League with the club. Since joining the Gunners, Rice has become a key part of Mikel Arteta’s team and is now considered one of the best midfielders in Europe.
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Arsenal lead the Premier League by a wide margin and impress in the Champions League.
The 26-year-old has so far made 119 appearances for Arsenal and scored 18 goals. This season, Rice is once again playing a key role, while Arsenal have had a brilliant start to the 2025/26 season.
Arteta’s men currently sit top of the Premier League table with a six-point lead over Manchester City. In Europe, Arsenal have won all four games so far in the Champions League and have yet to concede a goal in the tournament.
As a result of Rice’s good form, he has aroused interest from all over the continent.
According to Now Arsenal, La Liga giants Real Madrid are said to be interested in Rice.
It is claimed that the “Whites” have identified the English midfielder from Arsenal as one of their most important goals to strengthen both the present and the future.
In addition, the report claims that Arsenal will demand at least €150 million to let Rice leave.
The report added: “For Arsenal, the midfielder is not only a tactically crucial player, but also an asset that can define a generation. That’s why they don’t lower his price, despite Real Madrid’s interest.”
It is believed that Madrid have “other priorities” in the upcoming winter transfer window, which could “reduce resources” for the pursuit of Rice.
Last season, Rice scored two fantastic free-kick goals in a 3-0 win over Madrid in the quarter-finals.
Nevertheless, Arsenal ended up losing to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals.
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