Fabrizio Romano reports that Arsenal’s official bid to sign Declan Rice is expected very soon, with the Gunners holding “positive talks” over the signing in recent days.
Romano adds that Arsenal feel they’re ahead of Bayern Munich in the race, as the player’s preference is to keep playing in England.
The journalist also writes that Arsenal will enter into the “crucial stages” of the deal next week, though it’s not clear exactly what that means.
Football.London recently reported that Arsenal are confident that their opening bid is a strong one, but they believe a transfer will ultimately come down to the player to decide.
As well as Arsenal, Rice also has interest from a number of other clubs including Bayern and Manchester United. The Gunners are keen to avoid a bidding war if possible.
West Ham chairman David Sullivan has confirmed that Rice is likely to leave this summer.
“I think it has to be [his last game],” Sullivan said after the Europa Conference League final. “We promised him he could go. He set his heart on going.
“You can’t ask for a man who has committed more to us this season. He has to get on and we have to get a replacement.
“You can’t keep a player who doesn’t want to be there.”
24-year-old Rice made 50 appearances for West Ham this season so far, scoring five goals and providing four assists from his defensive midfield role.
After helping West Ham to avoid relegation, he captained them to Europa Conference League success over Fiorentina
Rice is also an England international, making 41 appearances for his country.
With England playing a couple of Euro qualifiers over the coming fortnight, Rice is set for further distractions from his potential transfer.
Gareth Southgate’s side play on June 16th and 19th against Malta and North Macedonia.
