On the Volley: Where Will Declan Rice be Playing Next Season?
By Charlie DeMatteo
Ever since Declan Rice broke out for West Ham United in 2018, he has been one of the most prestigious young players in all of Europe. In fact, it is a credit to West Ham’s recent success that they have held on to him for so long.
It may cost over 100 million pounds for his services, but even so, there should be a slew of clubs lining up for him. With West Ham’s struggles this season and Rice’s clear ambition to win trophies, the Englishman will undoubtedly be leaving the Irons this summer, but where to?
The Favorites
Arsenal
Mikel Arteta’s transformation of Arsenal this season has been something to behold. While a title could be within their grasp, Champions League qualification almost certainly is, and with that comes the ability to recruit a higher level of player, Rice included.
Looking at their current options in Rice’s holding midfield position, Thomas Partey has been immense for them this year, so you may be wondering why I have them as a favorite. Well, Partey’s fitness issues are clear for everyone to see, and I’m not sure Jorginho is the right man to back him up. Also, off-the-field legal issues with Partey could potentially see him sidelined for an extended period of time.
With Arsenal, Rice would be able to compete for trophies and stay in London, without going to a true rival of West Ham such as Spurs or Chelsea.
Chelsea
Speaking of Chelsea, they too are a legitimate candidate for Rice’s services. Rice is a boyhood Chelsea fan and has strong links with the club, including best friend Mason Mount, who currently plays for the Blues. Rice spent years at a young age at Chelsea’s academy before being dumped and picked up by West Ham, so a return could be on the cards.
While Chelsea are having a poor season, they are a juggernaut of a club and have the financial power to compete with anyone in Europe. However, Chelsea did just buy Enzo Fernandez for a world-record fee which may discourage them from spending another nine figures to get Rice. With that being said, there is no real limit to the amount of money Chelsea can spend it seems.
Chelsea may not have Champions League Football next year, but they do have more money than Arsenal. While West Ham fans would prefer he head North instead of West, the West Ham Board will no doubt be taking the highest offer. After all, we have already seen how Chelsea’s checkbook has trumped Arsenal’s in the Mykhailo Mudryk saga.
Their history together combined with Chelsea’s budget make Rice’s return to West London a real possibility.
The Contenders
Manchester United
Under Erik ten Hag this season, United look to be on their way back to the glory days. While the recent purchase of Casemiro makes the signing of Rice unlikely, you just can’t rule out the allure of Manchester United when they are at their peak.
Further, it looks like one way or another United will be owned by some new mega-wealthy owners in a few weeks’ time. Whether it is Sir Jim Ratcliffe or the Qatari consortium, a new owner may see Rice as a target to win over the fans by flexing their financial power.
Manchester City
After last summer’s purchase of Kalvin Phillips, who plays Rice’s same position and is also English, didn’t work out, City may not be in the market for Rice, but it is still a fit.
City have shown their willingness in recent years to spend big on English talent as seen with the Phillips and Jack Grealish buys, and Rice will no doubt be excited by the prospect of winning lots of trophies and working under Pep Guardiola.
The Longshots
Newcastle United
After the PIF of Saudi Arabia took control over the Northeastern club, Newcastle’s entire future changed. Not even two years since the change of ownership they are in the market for world-class players and chasing Champions League qualification.
If Rice wants to stay in England but leave London, Newcastle could maybe be an option. Sitting next to Bruno Guimares in midfield would be a great partnership and the fanbase along with big wages could potentially tempt Rice.
Paris Saint-Germain
The only non-English club I have on this list, PSG could be a shocking but exciting move for Rice. PSG have stalled in recent years despite flashy signings, what they really need is a world-class defensive midfielder like Rice.
While leaving England is not usually the route taken by English stars, maybe the allure of Paris, Messi, Neymar and Mbappé could sway his decision. While I don’t see PSG making a move for him, they certainly have the money to go for Rice and he does fill their biggest hole in the middle of the park.
My Prediction
While it pains me to say this, I do think Rice will end up in a Chelsea shirt next season. By doing this, Rice will be joining a rival of his current club and the club that let him go at a young age. However, I think Rice’s relationship with Mason Mount and Chelsea’s financial superiority over Arsenal will see him rejoin the West London club.