Arsenal transfer news: Declan Rice has completed his huge transfer to Arsenal this summer, but it is set to have a huge impact on rivals Manchester City
The England international joins the Gunners on a five-year deal, with the club holding the option of an extra year they can trigger on top. Rice was highly sought after during the window, with a drawn out saga playing out between all parties before the move was confirmed.
Arsenal made their moves early, placing £80million and £90million bids respectively, but they were turned down by West Ham. Manchester City they joined the race and while they were also turned away, the teams were moving closer towards reaching the £100million mark.
Speaking to Arsenal's club media in his first official interview, Rice said: "Lifting that [Europa Conference League trophy with West Ham] was really special and the icing on the cake, but my ambitions now are to win with Arsenal again. I think this fanbase deserves it.
"There has been FA Cups and Community Shields but now it's time to go one step bigger and win the Premier League and the Champions League and I wouldn't be here if I did not believe that. I believe in the squad and in the manager. We have a real good energy around the place and when everyone is pushing in that direction, Arsenal will take some stopping."
It's a clear warning to Arsenal's rivals with the ambitions of the players and the club itself with the huge price paid for the midfielder this summer. It has had an impact on title competitors Manchester City, who look set to go toe-to-toe with the Gunners again next season after a hard fought battle last time out.
The Cityzens have largely seen players move on this summer, but the move of Rice means they may have adjusted their fees for others who may be on the way out. According to Foot Mercato, Bernardo Silva is now valued at roughly the same price as the England international if he does make a move.
PSG have been attributed with interest in the Portuguese star, who has long been linked with an exit from the Etihad Stadium, and could be willing to reach the nine-figure mark. There are also players that could be offered, with the report adding that Marco Verratti, Gianluigi Donnarumma and Presnel Kimpembe have been involved in exchange talks, but so far there's no acceptance on a deal.
It remains to be seen whether that stance will sway in the near future, however at this stage City's transfer business has got off to a slow start. With Arsenal close on their tail, perhaps their reaction to the Gunners in the market has started to show as rumours begin to build.
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