Rio Ferdinand claims Declan Rice would have joined Man Utd

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has claimed that Declan Rice would have chosen to join Manchester United over Arsenal if the club had matched Arsenal's financial offer. Rice, who transferred from West Ham to Arsenal in a record £105 million deal, has become a key player for Mikel Arteta's side and recently delivered standout performances to help Arsenal eliminate Real Madrid from the Champions League. Ferdinand praised Rice's commanding display against Real Madrid, suggesting that it marked his arrival among the world's top midfielders. Both United and Chelsea were interested in Rice last summer, but only Arsenal matched the necessary financial terms. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta highlighted Rice's growth and decisive influence, particularly in high-stakes matches like those against Real Madrid. Ferdinand also admitted he would not mind seeing Arsenal win the Champions League, expressing admiration for several Arsenal players.