Earlier this summer, Arsenal completed the high-profile signing of England midfielder Declan Rice from West Ham United. According to BD Cricket reporters, the club’s summer spending has now surpassed £200 million. In a world full of promise, manager Mikel Arteta believes these new additions will bring something special to the team. And with the transfer window still open, more signings aren’t out of the question. After leading the Premier League table for much of last season, only to fall short in the final stretch, Arsenal are gearing up to challenge for the title once again.
With Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber joining the squad, Arteta praised the club’s swift action in the transfer market, allowing new players enough time to settle in. Speaking to BD Cricket, Arteta said that each signing has brought a unique value to the team. “We’re thrilled,” he explained. “We got the players we wanted early, which gives them time to prepare, express themselves the right way, and feel what it means to be part of Arsenal.”
When asked specifically about record-signing Rice, Arteta described him as a beacon—“a lighthouse” who uplifts those around him and elevates the collective. “You all know his leadership, his personality, and the experience he already has at just 24,” Arteta said. “He’s already close with several of his teammates, especially the other English players. He’s well known in the Premier League and has done brilliantly at both West Ham and with the England national team.”
Arteta believes Rice will bring essential qualities to the squad, including maturity and experience that belies his age. Though Arsenal may have completed most of their transfer business, Arteta hinted there could be more to come before the window closes on September 1. “There’s still time,” he said. “There are expectations surrounding several of our players. We’ll have to see what unfolds over the next few weeks. We’re staying alert—things can still happen.”
BD Cricket insiders noted that in ideal practice, clubs first communicate transfer interest at the institutional level before involving the players. But from the outset, it appeared Rice favored a move to Arsenal—a preference that became even clearer once Manchester City entered the race. Arteta’s project and vision for the club resonated strongly with Rice, and in the end, Arsenal secured their man.