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Rice was Arteta’s top midfield target for the summer transfer window and Arsenal finally completed their record £105 million deal with West Ham last weekend.
The 24-year-old is expected to become a lynchpin at the heart of Arsenal’s midfield and Rooney is adamant that Arteta has targeted the right signing to strengthen his side.
‘I think he’s a huge signing for Arsenal,’ said said, who is managing the MLS All-Star side which plays Arsenal in a pre-season friendly on Thursday.
‘He’s a fantastic player with a great mentality and young.
‘Arsenal have got a player at the top of his game and I think he’ll bring a great character in the dressing room.
‘He could be captain of Arsenal. He’s a player who Arsenal needed and they’ve certainly got a top player.’
Arsenal finished five points behind Premier League champions Manchester City last season and Rooney believes Arteta’s side will run Pep Guardiola’s men close once again this term.
‘I thought they had a fantastic season,’ said Rooney.
‘It was a huge step and the signings they’ve made have been huge to kick on and challenge City. I think Liverpool, Chelsea and hopefully Man United will be better.
‘Arsenal have made some great signings and they’ll compete again.’
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