Moyes declares Rice bargain

West Ham manager David Moyes has heaped praise on Declan Rice, suggesting Arsenal got a bargain when they signed the midfielder for a club-record £105 million last summer.

Rice has seamlessly transitioned to life at Arsenal, establishing himself as a key figure in their title challenge. His consistent and well-rounded performances have even seen him labelled as a potential Player of the Year candidate for the Gunners.

While Rice’s hefty transfer fee initially sparked debate, it appears modest compared to recent midfield acquisitions. Chelsea’s signings of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, both exceeding £100 million, haven’t yet matched Rice’s immediate impact.

Moyes, unsurprised by Rice’s success, jokingly revealed he previously suggested a £150 million valuation for his former captain. This comment emphasises Moyes’s belief that Rice’s current performances surpass those of other big-money midfielders.

Beyond his on-field contributions, Moyes highlights Rice’s age (25) and status as an established England international. These factors suggest Rice has several years at his peak, making him a valuable long-term asset for Arsenal.

Shifting his focus to West Ham‘s immediate concerns, Moyes looks ahead to their Premier League clash against Burnley. The Hammers aim to extend their winning streak to three games and solidify their position in the European qualification race. After a disappointing start to 2024, West Ham have rediscovered their attacking form. Their recent victories against Brentford and Everton showcased their attacking prowess with a combined seven goals scored