Declan Rice Told to 'Force a Move' from Arsenal After Saka's Record Contract
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has been advised to force a transfer away from the club this summer if he does not receive a new contract similar to Bukayo Saka's record-breaking deal, according to talkSPORT host Adrian Durham. The controversial comments come after Saka signed a new agreement with Arsenal this week, making him the club's highest-paid player with wages exceeding £300,000 per week.
Saka's Pivotal Role Rewarded with Landmark Contract
The 24-year-old Bukayo Saka, a product of Arsenal's academy, has become a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta's squad, contributing significantly to the team's pursuit of four trophies this season. His new contract reflects his importance to the club's ambitions, securing his future as a key figure in their ongoing project.
Durham's Fiery Critique of Arsenal's Treatment of Rice
In stark contrast, Declan Rice finds himself in his third season at Arsenal following his £105 million transfer from West Ham in 2023. The 27-year-old has consistently delivered standout performances, yet Durham argues that Rice's commitment and quality have been "totally disrespected" by the club's decision to make Saka the highest earner.
"Rice gives everything every game," Durham stated emphatically on the talkSPORT Daily podcast. "He's always available, he covers every blade of grass, he never rolls around pretending to be injured, he's the heartbeat of the team, he's more of a captain than Martin Odegaard will ever be. And yet, he's just heard that news that Saka has become the highest paid player at the football club."
Durham elaborated further, expressing his belief that Rice "must be fuming" over the situation. "In one stroke, Declan Rice's commitment and quality has been totally disrespected. So, I see giving Saka a fat, new contract as an insult to Declan Rice. Making Saka the highest paid player just absolutely sticks the knife in."
Strong Recommendation for Rice to Take Action
The talkSPORT host did not mince words when outlining what he believes Rice should do next. "If I was Declan Rice's agent, I'm pinning Arteta up against the wall, asking what's going on. I'm advising him to demand a new improved contract, and if Arsenal can't deliver that, force a move out of the club in the summer and go somewhere that's going to respect Declan Rice's talents."
Durham clarified that his criticism is not directed at Saka, whom he praised as deserving of his new deal. "Saka deserves it, I have no problem with Bukayo Saka at all. I'm an England fan, I love Bukayo Saka." Instead, he focused on what he perceives as a slight against Rice's contributions.
Rice's Strong Position in the Transfer Market
Highlighting Rice's value, Durham pointed out that numerous clubs across Europe would be eager to secure the midfielder's services. "They'd pay a lot of money for Declan Rice, they'd pay him a lot of money as well, he's in a very strong position."
While acknowledging that Rice may not be the type to publicly express discontent, Durham insisted that the situation must "niggle at him deep down." He concluded, "If I was Declan Rice I would feel insulted that I'm not the highest paid player at the football club."
This development adds another layer of intrigue to Arsenal's season as they compete on multiple fronts, with internal contract dynamics potentially influencing squad harmony and future planning.
