Rio Ferdinand claims Arsenal star would have chosen to join Manchester United for same salary

🕓 Last updated on August 22, 2025

Declan Rice transfer could have gone to Manchester United, says Rio Ferdinand, if the club had matched Arsenal’s record-breaking offer.

The Declan Rice transfer saga continues to spark debate, with Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand suggesting that Rice might have joined the Red Devils—if the club had matched Arsenal’s financial offer.

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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand praised Rice’s recent performances and admitted that Manchester United missed a golden opportunity. “If United had come to the table with a chequebook and said, ‘We’ll match what Arsenal pay,’ I think Declan Rice would have chosen Manchester United,” Ferdinand said.

His comments have reignited discussions about United’s transfer strategy and their ability to attract top-tier talent.

Rice’s Impact Since Joining Arsenal

Declan Rice joined Arsenal in 2023 for a record-breaking £105 million from West Ham United. Since then, he has become a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad, delivering standout performances across all competitions.

Most recently, Rice played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s Champions League triumph over Real Madrid. He scored twice in the first leg and dominated the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, guiding the Gunners to a 2-1 win and a 5-1 aggregate victory.

Rice vs Bellingham: A Midfield Masterclass

The much-anticipated clash between Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham lived up to expectations. However, Rice outshined his fellow England international in nearly every aspect. His commanding display not only justified Arsenal’s investment but also highlighted his growth on the European stage.

Ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town, Arteta praised Rice’s growth and influence. “Performances like the one against Real Madrid elevate a player into a different dimension—and that’s exactly why we brought him here,” Arteta stated.

The Declan Rice transfer has proven to be a masterstroke for Arsenal, with the midfielder now considered one of the best in the world.

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