Arsenal have two transfer incentives for Declan Rice that Man City cannot match

Arsenal may hold the edge over Manchester City if Declan Rice is offered the opportunity to decide where his future lies. Both clubs are desperate to acquire the services of the midfielder, with West Ham resigned to losing the services of the playmaker and agreeing to facilitate his exit.

The Gunners were previously in pole position to sign Rice after completing a significant chunk of groundwork towards the very latter stages of the campaign. Mikel Arteta had persuaded the midfielder that a move to the Emirates Stadium was the right step in his career.

However, despite that, Arsenal have insisted on trying to strike a deal with West Ham for a reduced fee in instalments – with both bids being rejected without hesitation. The delay has opened the door open for City to pursue their target after Ilkay Gundogan opted to join Barcelona, and now the two clubs look set to battle it out for the 24-year-old.

According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal hold two advantages in the race to sign Rice due to squad depth and his leadership qualities. The England international would slot straight into the heart of Arteta’s team, replacing Bayer Leverkusen-bound Granit Xhaka, and is likely to be one of the first names on the team sheet in London.

In contrast, City’s squad depth in all departments continues to bewilder their opponents, and a quick glance at Kalvin Phillips’ stats last season would show that Rice is not guaranteed a place in Pep Guardiola’s starting eleven simply because he is a summer signing. Gundogan’s departure provides options for the ex-Barcelona boss, though the likes of Phillips and Phil Foden will both believe they have different attributes to offer in the role.

At Arsenal, Rice is also reportedly seen as a ‘future captain’ due to how he leads by example and success whilst wearing the armband at West Ham. The playmaker would also become one of the ‘leadership group’ that aids Martin Odegaard, and it would be no real surprise if he deputised in place of the Norwegian when Arteta rotates his ranks.