Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a move for Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich – and signing the Bayern Munich man could see Mikel Arteta transform Declan Rice.
Since Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham for an eye-watering £105m, he has played a pivotal role in Arteta’s squad. His ability to transition from a defensive position to leading an attack makes Rice an incredibly diverse player.
Where the 26-year-old has fallen this season is in his forward presence. Last season, Rice scored seven goals for Arsenal in the Premier League. The two seasons before that with the Irons, he scored five goals in each campaign.
This season so far, he has only bagged a single goal for Arsenal in the Premier League. The 26-year-old hasn’t been able to progress high up the pitch as he likes to do. However, paired alongside a player with the midfield presence of Kimmich, this could change for the better.
A key component of Kimmich’s play is his ability to control games from the centre of the field. With a player that has mountains of experience backing Rice up, the England international would feel much more comfortable pushing forward and playing a more advanced role.
(Image: Markus Gilliar – GES Sportfoto/Getty Images)
The arrival of Kimmich wouldn’t just be an opportunity for Rice to unlock what fans already know he has, but the ex-West Ham captain could also learn a lot from the eight-time Bundesliga winner.
A player who has played under the likes of Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel, his intelligence and tactical awareness is second to none. Paired with Rice, the two midfielders could create a formidable duo in the centre of the pitch.
Regarding the potential transfer itself, Sky Germany are reporting that talks are ongoing between the clubs, however, Arsenal are yet to comment on reports that they’ve held conversations with Kimmich’s representatives. The German’s contract runs out this summer making him a free agent.
Kimmich would be an incredibly exciting signing for Arsenal fans – and perhaps one player in particular, as well.
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