Mikel Arteta and Edu’s first words as Arsenal announce Declan Rice transfer| SolSportHQ

Mikel Arteta and Edu are excited to welcome Declan Rice to Arsenal after beating Man City to the midfielder’s signature

The Hammers were initially reluctant to sell the England international but, after he led the club to European glory, David Sullivan sanctioned his departure. football.london understands that Arsenal will pay West Ham a guaranteed £100million, including a potential further £5million in add-ons.

In an interview with the club’s official website, Arteta said: “We’re really happy that Declan is joining us. He is a player with tremendous ability, who has been performing at a high level in the Premier League and for England for a number of seasons now.

“Declan is bringing undoubted quality to the club and he is an exceptional talent who has the potential to be very successful here. Declan has great experience in the Premier League at only 24 years old.

“He has captained a very good West Ham team and as we all saw, he recently lifted a European trophy. The responsibility and role he has taken on has been very impressive and we are really excited that he is joining us.”

Edu shared Arteta’s excitement following the Englishman’s arrival. The Arsenal transfer chief said: “Declan is a player with fantastic ability and a proven record at both club and international levels. The process of this transfer has been a big team effort with a clear plan, and we are so happy that Declan is joining us.

“Declan is a high-quality, young international player who will add great strength to our squad, fitting so well into our strategy of competing with young talented players at the centre of our club.

“It’s great that Declan will be joining up with Mikel, our coaches and his new teammates in good time ahead of the new season.”