Saka reveals his role in helping Arsenal to sign Declan Rice

The Arsenal winger has lifted the lid on his role in encouraging Declan Rice to join the club for a record transfer fee.

Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka played a role in convincing his England teammate Declan Rice to join the Gunners this summer.

In only five games, Rice has already made a huge impact at Emirates. The 24-year-old has impressed in the heart of the Gunners midfield and scored a memorable first goal against Manchester United at the weekend.

He is already justifying the €116.6 million Arsenal paid to sign him from West Ham.

“He’d ask a few questions and I’d answer them,” Saka told talkSPORT of his earlier talks with Rice about Arsenal.

“But yeah, I’d just try to give him the reassurance that he’d be coming to the right club and that the future is exciting for us. If he joined us, he’d make us better and that yeah, we can definitely achieve things.”

‘I’m happy for him’

Despite interest from heavyweights such as Manchester City, Rice chose Arsenal. It’s a move that appears to have benefitted both the club and the player handsomely.

In fact, Rice is fast becoming a fan favorite, with the supporters chanting his name after Sunday’s 3-1 win over Manchester United.

Saka couldn’t be happier for his teammate, adding: “It was an unbelievable moment for him and his family. Even the stadium, he said it was crazy when he felt the atmosphere.

“He’s right though, it’s really special to play there. I’m just happy he’s happy and that he’s performing, and he’s got his first goal as well, I don’t think there’s a better moment for him to get his first goal. So yeah, I’m happy for him.”