Danny Murphy says £60m star Arsenal want just isn’t on the same level as Declan Rice

Anton Ferdinand and Danny Murphy have praised Joao Palhinha, but neither believe that the Arsenal target has the ability to ever be as good as Declan Rice.

Arsenal are interested in Joao Palhinha as Mikel Arteta sets his sights on strengthening his midfield options. But speaking on The Take On, both Ferdinand and Danny Murphy are not convinced that he is on the same level as the Gunners’ new hero.

Joao Palhinha has proved to be an amazing signing for Fulham. Certainly, a lot of sides will be kicking themselves that they did not act before the Cottagers struck a £20 million deal.

Danny Murphy not convinced Joao Palhinha is on the same level as Declan Rice

It appears that he could be on the move in one of the coming windows. As reported by 90min, he saw a switch to Bayern Munich fall through right at the end of the summer. The likes of Arsenal and Liverpool are now monitoring the £60 million-rated 28-year-old.

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Arsenal are looking for the additions which will potentially get them across the line in the Premier League title race.

Both Ferdinand and Murphy praised Palhinha. However, neither think that he is playing at an elite level.

“At the moment, he’s got to have another two good seasons to put him with Rice,” Ferdinand told The Take On. “Listen, he’s a very, very good player.

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“Terrific player. But he’s not Declan Rice,” Murphy replied.

“And won’t be,” Ferdinand added.

Arsenal face tough decision over potential £60m spend

Of course, there are not many midfielders on Rice’s level. Rice has arguably been one of the best players in the Premier League this season. It is remarkable how easily he has settled into Mikel Arteta’s side.

But it does highlight that there are reasons to potentially be put off a move. Fulham understandably want a big fee for the midfielder. And he turns 29 next summer. So he may not have a long time left at his peak.

Arsenal will have their sights set on further game-changing signings which elevate the squad to that next level. Some clearly have doubts over whether Palhinha would fit the bill.

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