Rice University Draws Interest from Champions League Titleholders

Real Madrid are reportedly being urged internally to prioritise Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice as the club debates its midfield strategy, TEAMtalk reports.

The Spanish club is actively evaluating options to bolster its central squad, with Manchester City’s Rodri and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez both highly regarded by the Estadio Bernabéu hierarchy.

TEAMtalk previously disclosed that Florentino Perez is a strong admirer of Fernandez and has already tasked the club’s staff with exploring a potential deal for the Argentine international.

Rodri remains viewed as one of the world’s elite midfielders and is highly valued by Madrid’s recruitment team.

However, TEAMtalk Insider Graeme Bailey has learned that not everyone at the club agrees those should be the primary targets.

Some influential voices within the Madrid hierarchy argue that Arsenal’s Declan Rice is currently the most complete midfielder in European football and should sit at the top of the club’s wish list.

Also Read: I Was Really Sad When Rice Chose To Go To Arsenal —Man United Star Admits

The 27‑year‑old has had a standout season for Arsenal, emerging as arguably the club’s most influential player as they won their first Premier League title since moving to the Emirates Stadium.

Rice is also expected to play a starring role for England at this summer’s World Cup finals, where he will be one of the first names on Thomas Tuchel’s teamsheet and a key figure in the Three Lions’ hopes of lifting the trophy.

Although Mikel Arteta’s side fell short in their Champions League campaign, Rice’s performances throughout the season only strengthened his reputation as one of the world’s premier midfielders.

Sources say his consistency, leadership, physicality and technical quality have all impressed observers in Spain.