Journalist shares what a source close to Declan Rice has told him amid rumours Arsenal could sign Mikel Merino
Declan Rice had a fantastic debut season at Arsenal as the Gunners came within a whisker of winning the Premier League.
The Gunners were exceptional last season, and this time around, they’re looking to build on those foundations.
Rice will, once again, be key to Mikel Arteta’s side’s success, but he may be playing a slightly different role this term.
Speaking on the Ranks FC Podcast, Dean Jones has been discussing Rice amid rumours Mikel Merino could be headed to Arsenal.
Jones has spoken to a source close to Rice, and he’s been told that the midfielder expects to play as both a number six and a number eight at times next season.
Jones says that Rice is expected to be given a bit more freedom if Merino joins.
What a source close to Declan Rice has said
Jones shared what he’s been told by a source close to Declan Rice.
“Mikel Merino is certainly a player who is suited to this style of play. That will have a knock-on effect too on what Declan Rice does this season,” Jones said.
“I spoke to someone the other day who knows Rice well and he said he’s expecting to play a mixture of number six and number eight this season, it will depend on who that new midfield signing ends up being.
“If it is Merino, you add that in with the other midfielders who are in there already, Dec is expecting to play six sometimes but also expecting to be let off the leash sometimes.”
What Gary Neville has said about Declan Rice’s role
It’s encouraging to hear that Rice will have a bit more freedom next year.
Rice was often at his best last season when Jorginho was sitting deeper alongside him and he was allowed to foray forwards.
Gary Neville noted earlier this year that he thinks Rice is better in a more advanced role.
“I think Rice – and I said this a few years ago – Declan isn’t the best at receiving the ball in tight areas with his back to play. He’s better at receiving it when he’s facing the play and running forward,” Neville said.
Merino could be just the signing Arsenal need to make in order to get the best out of Rice every week.
