The Gunners are reportedly eyeing huge moves for both Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice in an attempt to revitalise their squad with a mix of tactical versatility, Premier League experience, and much-needed youthfulness this summer.
With Caicedo estimated to cost around £75million and Rice expected to command a price tag in excess of £90million, Arsenal’s ambitions are clearly sky-high this summer as they look to build on a second placed finish and compete also in the Champions League.
The latest news on developments in a deal for Declan Rice comes from The Telegraph who claim that Arsenal have moved a step closer to securing Rice, despite interest from Bayern Munich.
Also, London World are claiming an ‘exclusive’ that Arsenal are set to offer £75million to sign Caicedo, a figure similar to what Brighton turned down in January. But it is understood that Brighton may be more willing to accept such an amount in this window, they were just unwilling to do so mid-season.
One of the key reasons Arsenal are keen on acquiring both Caicedo and Rice is their ability to bring tactical versatility to the squad. Mikel Arteta, the Gunners’ manager, values players who can seamlessly adapt to different systems and roles on the pitch. Both Caicedo and Rice possess the necessary attributes to excel in various midfield positions and even in defence, making them invaluable assets for Arteta’s tactical experimentation, something we may need to see more of, especially in European ties.
Another enticing aspect of the potential signings is the Premier League experience that Caicedo and Rice would bring to the Emirates. The English top-flight is renowned for its unique demands and physicality, and having players who are already well-versed in the league can be a significant advantage. Arsenal have witnessed this first hand in the success of some recent signings like Leandro Trossard, Aaron Ramsdale, Ben White and more.
Rice (24), in particular, has already demonstrated his ability to shine consistently at the highest level for both club and country, while Caicedo has made an impressive impact during his time at Brighton and has notched 30 caps for Ecuador’s national team, despite being just 21.
Undoubtedly, the combined cost of Caicedo and Rice would place a considerable burden on Arsenal’s finances. With Caicedo’s price hovering around £75million and Rice commanding a figure in excess of £90million, the club will have to make sales in order to ensure they can still strengthen elsewhere. But this summer there is a genuine chance of Arsenal making more than £100million in sales. The likes of Folarin Balogun and Kieran Tierney could command significant amounts, whilst space could be made in midfield through the sales of Granit Xhaka and possibly even Jorginho, who is being linked with a move to reunite with Sarri at Lazio.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice showcases the club’s ambition to rebuild their midfield with players who possess tactical versatility, Premier League experience, and refresh that area of the squad with younger profiles. The potential addition of these two talented midfielders could provide the side with the necessary boost to compete at the highest level once again. While the financial implications are significant, the potential benefits and long-term impact on the squad make this pursuit a tantalising prospect for the club.