The media took an interest in Declan Rice after he met with a high-ranking official in secret.

Yesterday, Declan Rice of Arsenal was spotted meeting with West Ham co-owner Albert “Tripp” Smith. He is the ultimate owner of WHU LLC and currently owns 8% of West Ham.

Even during their bitter disagreements, Rice remained close to American billionaire Smith. In 2017, Smith—a senior executive at the private equity firm The Blackstone Group and a member of the West Ham board of directors—purchased a 10% share in the team.

The Oswald Members Club in London’s affluent Mayfair neighborhood hosted the seminar. Rice wore a black jacket and pants, a white sneaker that was quite eye-catching, and a navy blue shirt. On the other hand, Smith was seen wearing a blue suit, a white shirt, and a purple tie.

Patrons of Oswald’s Members’ Club included Princess Anne, Lady Margarita Armstrong-Jones, and Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece. Among the other well-known sponsors are reportedly the Beckham family, Boris Johnson, and Ben Elliot, co-chairman of the Conservative Party. Additionally, rumors suggest that in December 2022, Prince William attended a party there.

It was founded in 2017 by British businessman Robin Birley, who is still the owner. According to Country & Town House, annual membership fees start at £1,800.

Rice was added to the most recent England roster just now.