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Peter Reid has hailed Declan Rice as being among the finest midfielders England has ever produced, placing the Arsenal star in the same elite category as legends Steven Gerrard and Bryan Robson. Speaking to GOAL, the former England midfielder suggested that Rice fully deserves to be mentioned alongside such illustrious names. The newly crowned Premier League champion will now aim to further justify that recognition when he represents England at the 2026 World Cup.

Rice could follow in the footsteps of Gerrard and Robson by captaining the England team one day.

Liverpool icon Gerrard and Manchester United legend Robson both previously led the Three Lions at FIFA’s biggest tournament — in 1986/1990 and 2010/2014 respectively.

Rice, now 27, is widely viewed as a natural successor to Harry Kane for the England captaincy. While the prolific Bayern Munich striker shows no signs of stepping down soon, his time with the armband will eventually come to an end.

When that happens, England are expected to look to their midfield general for leadership. Throughout history, several of the country’s most influential captains have come from the centre of the pitch, and Rice seems prepared to continue that tradition.

The West Ham academy product, who became the most expensive British footballer ever with his £105 million ($141m) transfer to Arsenal, appears ready for the responsibility whenever it arises.

That record-breaking transfer may one day be surpassed, but Arsenal have already found immense value in the deal that drew plenty of attention in 2023. Rice played a vital role in helping the Gunners end a 22-year wait for the Premier League title and also featured in the Champions League final.

Why Declan Rice is viewed as one of the most complete midfielders in the game

Rice has already appeared on the Ballon d’Or shortlist and could feature in many more to come. When asked whether Rice has now become the most complete midfielder globally, former England international Peter Reid, speaking on behalf of BUDDS — the UK’s leading sports memorabilia auctioneers — told GOAL: “I think he’s a massive influence on the pitch. Top player, top player.”

Reid added, “Bryan Robson was a top player, so if I’m mentioning both in the same sentence, it tells you how highly I rate Declan Rice. He’s a terrific footballer. I’ve heard many comparisons between him and Bryan Robson, and I’d say he’s right up there.”

“Stevie G was an outstanding footballer, brilliant in every sense. Rice belongs in that top bracket of midfielders. He’s excellent on both sides of the game — winning the ball, distributing it, reading play, defending, attacking — you can’t ask for better.”

Would Declan Rice now be valued above £150m?

Although Rice has already broken transfer records, Arsenal will hope to keep him long-term. The midfielder is under contract until 2028, and reports suggest that discussions over a possible extension have already started.

If Rice were to enter the transfer market today, his value would likely have increased significantly. Swedish striker Alexander Isak’s £125m ($168m) move to Liverpool last summer set a new record in British football. With that in mind, Rice’s price could easily exceed £150m ($202m).

Responding to that speculation, former Manchester City and Sunderland manager Peter Reid said: “I’ve been on the managerial side negotiating deals. The game has evolved, and there’s so much money involved now.”

“Players are worth whatever clubs are willing to pay. You can put numbers on it, but that’s just how the business works. Football’s become so commercial — with the World Cup now featuring 48 teams and even talk of a European Super League — it’s all about money.”

“If anyone tried to take him away from Arsenal — though I can’t see that happening — it would cost them a fortune, let’s just say that.”

England and Rice aiming for ultimate success at the 2026 World Cup

Rice’s market value could rise even further if he helps England end six decades of heartbreak by winning the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder dreams of following in the footsteps of the heroes of 1966.

Several of those legends, including Martin Peters, came through the West Ham system. Peters famously scored England’s second goal in the 4-2 victory over West Germany, and his match-worn jersey from that day is expected to sell for between £30,000 and £50,000 at auction.

This is one of several notable items set to go under the hammer, including Norman Whiteside’s 1982 World Cup shirt, worn when he became the youngest player ever to appear in the tournament. Rice and his teammates will hope that their own memorabilia will one day be just as highly prized.

The BUDDS World Cup Auction is scheduled for 25 June 2026, with an online timed auction beginning on 2 June. Collectors can also request free online valuations for their sporting memorabilia.