Arsenal have been backed to assist Declan Rice fulfil his potential in changing into the following Steven Gerrard. Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock says the West Ham captain can take his recreation to a brand new stage with a transfer to the Emirates.

Arsenal are the favourites to signal Rice this summer season. His contract expires in 2024 however the Hammers do have the choice to increase it by an extra yr.

David Moyes has reiterated that Rice will likely be "extremely expensive" however Arsenal are ready to spend a big chunk of their finances on the 24-year-old. He would turn into the membership's most-expensive signing of all time and by far the most important arrival in Mikel Arteta's reign as supervisor.

The Gunners are again within the Champions League for the primary time in seven years. Warnock says that could be a necessity for a participant of Rice's calibre.

He wish to see his outdated membership Liverpool signal him however admits Arsenal is the likelier vacation spot. The pundit can see comparisons with legendary Reds captain Gerrard and predicts Rice to indicate extra of these attributes if he have been to maneuver to the Emirates.

Warnock mentioned on Sky Sports News: "I think he needs to be playing Champions League football. He is an outstanding footballer. Without being disrespectful to West Ham, if he leaves and goes to a top four in the Champions League places, he will improve, he will get better.

"I'd like to see him at Liverpool, I'm not going to lie, I've mentioned it many instances. I believe he'd be an enormous addition for Liverpool.

"But it looks like whether it will be Arsenal, maybe, they've been touted as the team who are interested in buying him. But whoever gets him is buying someone who is durable, tactically brilliant, adaptable to where he plays.

"You may actually play him in any midfield place, you possibly can play him centre-back, you possibly can play him right-back. He can be so snug in any place taking part in on your workforce.

"So you're buying a player who can play in numerous positions and probably be the best player in every single position on the pitch. I think he is phenomenal. I think he's just going to get better and better as well.

"I mentioned it final yr he jogs my memory, and the closest factor I've seen to Gerrard, however the one factor he would not do for the time being is he would not rating sufficient targets. That's a facet that I believe by going to a distinct membership, that will enhance."

Arsenal's record buy is Nicolas Pepe for £72million. Warnock reckons Rice would be worth at least £80m and nearer to £100m.

He added: "You're trying in and round £100m aren't you. You additionally must consider him being a homegrown participant, being an English participant inside a squad.

"That's hugely valuable as well. It's so difficult to put a price on it but you'd say anywhere between £80m and £100m."

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