Arsenal midfielder hilariously claims he would score 20 goals this season if Mikel Arteta plays him as ‘big target man’

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has claimed that he would score 20 goals a season if he played as a No. 9 under Mikel Arteta. The Englishman is one of the finest midfielders in the Premier League and has taken his game to a higher level since arriving at the Emirates.

The Gunners reportedly paid a club-record £105m to sign Rice from West Ham United in the summer of 2023. The 25-year-old hit the ground running with the north London side last season, registering seven goals and 10 assists from 51 games across competitions.

This season, Rice has one goal and three assists from 15 games so far. While he was not brought in with the intention of scoring goals, the player reckons he could do a good job if he switched positions.

Arsenal recently shared a video on social media where players were asked to name one position they would pick to play in if they had the choice. Rice gave a hilarious answer, suggesting that he would flourish as a big No. 9 for the Gunners.

“Number nine! Big target man! (How many goals would score if he played up top) A season? 20 plus!” said Rice.

Declan Rice's contract with Arsenal runs until 2028.

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Declan Rice

Arsenal were keen to sign Benjamin Sesko this summer but failed to secure a move. The Slovenian has since signed a new deal with RB Leipzig, although he remains linked with the north London side.

Recent reports have suggested that the 21-year-old has a gentleman's agreement with the Bundesliga side, who will allow him to leave for a €70-75m offer next year. Sesko has been in fine form this season as well, registering seven goals and three assists from 17 games across competitions.

The Gunners are likely to keep him under close watch. Arsenal are expected to invest in a proven No. 9 next summer, with Gabriel Jesus struggling to impress.

The north London side have scored 21 goals in 12 games in the league this season. However, the Brazilian is yet to score a goal in the Premier League this season and is no longer a first-team regular under Mikel Arteta.

Jesus has started just six games this season and although his contract expires in 2027, he could be offloaded next year. Sesko has already shown that he could be an upgrade on Jesus at the Emirates.