Declan Rice is destined to play for ‘top side’ amid Arsenal and Chelsea transfer links, says Marco Verratti

ITALY international Marco Verratti expects Declan Rice to join a “top side” after heaping praise on the West Ham captain.

The two midfielders faced off last night as England beat Italy at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in their opening 2024 Euro qualifier.

GettyDeclan Rice and Marco Verratt battled in England’s match against Italy[/caption]

GettyRice impressed in the game and scored the first goal of the game[/caption]

GettyAfterwards Verratti said that Rice will join a ‘top side’[/caption]

Rice starred for the Three Lions and was named man of the match after dominating the midfield.

The Hammers man also bagged his third international goal as he opened the scoring with a good finish in the first half.

And after the game, his performance was noticed by PSG star Verratti, who believes that the 24-year-old will get a big move.

He said: “I really like him as a player.

“He provides great balance and shape to the team, and he’s got wonderful physical attributes.

“He really helps his team out a lot.

“He’s a number six, a defensive midfielder that England really need.

“I’m sure that he will end up at a top side because I’ve played against him many times, he never gives up.

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“He’s got a wonderful attitude, and he’s still very young so he’s got a huge room for improvement.”

Rice has been linked with an exit from West Ham over the last couple of seasons, with many top clubs interested in his services.

Arsenal are believed to be his most likely destination with the Gunners planning a summer move.

Chelsea are also in the running to sign Rice as they look to lure him back to the club after originally releasing him as a teenager from the youth academy.

GettyRice has been linked with a move away from West Ham[/caption]