David Moyes has admitted West Ham United could have held out for even more money for Declan Rice, and the two remain on good terms.

Speaking in his press conference ahead of West Ham United’s trip to the Emirates Stadium on Thursday night, David Moyes suggested he’s happy with how things are going for Declan Rice at Arsenal.

“We’re all pleased for Declan Rice,” Moyes said. “No one ever doubted his ability and, while we won’t be cheering him on against us on Thursday evening, we’re always looking out for him.”

Arsenal signed Rice in the summer for a £100m fee, with an additional £5m in potential add-ons.

Yet the midfielder has played so well that even that fee looks like a bargain.

Moyes admits the Hammers could have brought in more money for Rice, but they’re ultimately happy with the deal they got.

“I said right from the start that I thought Declan Rice was a top player and I thought his value could have been greater,” Moyes insisted.

“We got the price we wanted though, and Dec got the move he wanted, so it was a move that worked for both parties.

“I think Declan would make any team more mature and improve any team in the Premier League so I think their current levels are partially to do with him right now.”

Rice and Moyes remain on good terms, according to reports. The Athletic claim Moyes even texts the midfielder sometimes after he puts in a good performance for Arsenal.

Rice still gets on well with those at his old club, and he spent hours talking to their staff after the League Cup game between the two teams earlier in the season.

Of course, things didn’t work out too well for Arsenal on that occasion, and Rice will be hoping to put that right by ending up on the winning side on Thursday night.