EPL: Wayne Rooney predicts what Declan Rice will become at Arsenal

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has said that newly signed Arsenal star Declan Rice is a ‘huge signing’ for the Gunners, backing the midfielder to become a future captain for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Arsenal finally completed their record £105 million deal with West Ham last weekend.

Rice, 24, is expected to become a lynchpin at the heart of Arsenal’s midfield and Rooney is adamant that Arteta has targeted the right signing to strengthen his side.

“I think he’s a huge signing for Arsenal,” said said, who is managing the MLS All-Star side which plays Arsenal in a pre-season friendly on Thursday.

“He’s a fantastic player with a great mentality and is young.

“Arsenal have got a player at the top of his game and I think he’ll bring a great character in the dressing room.

“He could be captain of Arsenal. He’s a player who Arsenal needed and they’ve certainly got a top player.”