Andy Carroll has claimed Declan Rice should chose Arsenal over Chelsea amid reports both clubs want to sign the midfielder.
England international Rice has been the subject of intense transfer speculation, with several clubs reportedly interested in the highly rated 24-year-old.
Now his former West Ham teammate Andy Carroll has voiced his opinion on where Rice should go in the summer.
Speaking to Metro, Carroll said: “I can’t really see Declan Rice leaving the Premier League.
“West Ham aren’t doing great at the moment but Declan loves West Ham. I was at the club with him when he was a kid coming through – he is a great guy and a great player.”
Rice has played 231 games for West Ham since he made his debut in 2017, aged just 18.
Many feel the dynamic midfielder has now outgrown the Hammers however, with the club struggling for form and currently sitting in 15th, above the relegation on goal difference.
Former England striker, Carroll, said:”We all know he needs to go to a top club. I can’t see him going outside of England, but he should go to a top-three or top-two club.
“I’d like to see Declan at Arsenal to be honest – I’m not an Arsenal fan but I like the way they’re playing at the minute.
“The way Mikel Arteta has them playing and the young lads coming through – you see the team and the average age is incredible.”
Arsenal have been enjoying a terrific season under Arteta, the Gunners are currently sitting at the top of the Premier League and are eight points clear of closest rivals Manchester City.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have had a disastrous term, the 2021 Champions League winners are languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League.
The club removed Graham Potter as manager last weekend, following the 2-0 defeat at home to Aston villa.
It seems highly unlikely the Blues will feature in Europe this year, unless they manage to win the Champions League outright.
European football could be a determining factor for Rice, and with Arsenal clearly looking more likely, that could tip the balance in their favour.
The Gunners will also be keen on strengthening that area of the pitch, and increasing their depth with the likelihood of an increased fixture schedule next year.
Rice would prove a welcome addition to the side and provide competition for Thomas Partey in defensive midfield.
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