Arsenal sporting director Edu Gaspar has been urged to sign West Ham captain Declan Rice as he would be an 'upgrade' on Thomas Partey. The Ghana international has endured a difficult few weeks for the Gunners after an impressive season in Mikel Arteta's midfield.
Partey has thrived in a new role for Arsenal, playing as the lone holding midfielder alongside Granit Xhaka and Martin Odegaard. Oleksandr Zinchenko's arrival has allowed Arteta to implement a new system that has seen the Ukraine international move into midfield in possession and help Partey protect the defence, along with aiding attacking phases of play.
The Ghanaian midfielder has had his injury problems this season and has struggled for form in recent weeks as the Gunners have stumbled in their Premier League title challenge. Partey was criticised for his performance during the 2-2 draw against West Ham in which Rice got the better of the Arsenal star at the London Stadium.
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Edu has now been told to sign the England international by former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre and 'upgrade' Arteta's midfield despite Partey's impressive performances this term. Silvestre told bettingexpert.com: "I think Partey has been excellent this season and he has played his best football for Arsenal.
"So, I expect him to respond and go back to his best after a few bad games. But obviously, every top club needs competition and Declan Rice, with all the respect for Thomas Partey, would be an upgrade, for sure."
football.london reported earlier this year that the Gunners are set to bolster their midfield options this summer and are prioritising a move for the Hammers' captain. Rice will have just a year left on his current deal ahead of next season and has rejected a number of proposals to sign a new contract with West Ham.
The 24-year-old is considered to be one of the most talented midfielders in the Premier League and could be the perfect successor to Partey - who turns 30 in June. Rice is valued at €80million (£70million), via transfermarkt, but has the potential to help take Arsenal to the next level and maintain their position as title challengers - along with helping them compete in the Champions League next season.
Arteta lacks quality in depth in midfield and signing Rice could help the Gunners reach a similar level to Manchester City. The West Ham star has already expressed a desire to play for a Champions League club and compete for trophies on a consistent basis meaning a move to the Emirates Stadium could happen this summer.
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