Declan Rice has recently joined Arsenal for £105m fee, becoming Premier League's second and the club's most-ever expensive signing.
CaughtOffside columnist Ben Jacobs has unveiled exclusive insights into the Englishman's transfer decision.
While Chelsea remained in the race until January, the midfielder ultimately opted for a move to North London due to uncertainty surrounding Graham Potter's future and the overall state of the club.
The England international seemed unimpressed by the Blues' offer, while Mikel Arteta and other key figures at Arsenal succeeded in persuading him.
Despite interest from Manchester City as well, the 24-year-old made up his mind to join the London outfit.
The decision followed months of dedicated efforts from the Gunners, with the manager playing a vital role in swaying Rice's choice.
Additionally, the star had discussions with national teammates Bukayo Saka, Aaron Ramsdale, and Arsenal legend Ian Wright, which further solidified his decision to become a Gunner.
“Arsenal have their number one summer target in Declan Rice. For many months the now former West Ham captain only wanted Arsenal,” Jacobs explained.
“In fact, even if Manchester City had matched the £105m package, Rice still would have picked Arsenal. That’s partly why City pulled out. Their only real hope was to trump Arsenal’s package, but instead it was the Gunners who bid big. This played right into West Ham’s hands, who wanted a bidding war.
“Arsenal knew Rice spoke glowingly of Mikel Arteta and ideally wanted to stay in London so that helped their cause. But Chelsea were in the mix as well up until January.
“Graham Potter wanted Rice yet Chelsea moved for Enzo Fernandez instead. Rice was originally open to returning to Chelsea but just not sold by the pitch. And he always feared Potter wouldn’t be the manager he would end up playing under, and was ultimately proven right.
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