Arsenal star Oleksandr Zinchenko shared a moment with Declan Rice at full-time of England's win against Ukraine, where he appeared to address Rice's supposed move
(Image credit: JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal fans believe they've just received confirmation from Oleksandr Zinchenko that a move for Declan Rice is imminent.
Zinchenko lined up as the Ukraine captain opposite England at Wembley, as the Three Lions ran out 2-0 winners. Zinchenko's club-mate Bukayo Saka secured the Man of the Match with an assist for Harry Kane before launching a stunning 20-yard curler to double England's lead before half-time.
But even after the full-time whistle, Arsenal fans were captivated, as Zinchenko shared a hug with Declan Rice.
West Ham United star Declan Rice is the priority signing for Arsenal this summer (Image credit: Getty Images)
OK, so he could have said something completely unrelated – but now you know why footballers tend to cover their mouths when talking to one another on the field.
Though Rice's response wasn't clear, the moment has fueled rumours that the Gunners are pursuing a move for the defensive midfielder. Rice is believed to be Arsenal's priority signing this summer – and Irons boss David Moyes seemed to confirm last month that a big fee will be needed to sign him.
“He'll be a British transfer record if he ever leaves West Ham,” the Scot said, adding, “I hope he sees his time here.”
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David Moyes reckons a mammoth bid would tempt Rice away (Image credit: Getty Images)
West Ham are believed to have offered Rice three contract extensions beyond 2024, all of which, the star has turned down.
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
