With rumours growing of bids from both Manchester clubs for Declan Rice, the good news is that Arsenal seemingly remain the midfielder’s priority transfer.
Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian reports that Rice remains keen on Arsenal despite talk of a bid from Manchester City. His preference is to stay in London, after becoming a father in the capital last year, and he admires Mikel Arteta’s football.
Steinberg claims that the expectation remains that Rice will join Arsenal for a fee that could top £100m with add-ons, with indications on Thursday night that the transfer was rumbling towards a conclusion.
But for the time being, Arsenal have seen two bids turned down and are yet to formally submit their third.
Sami Mokbel of the Daily Mail reports that Arteta views Rice as a future Arsenal captain, with the club preparing that third bid for the signing closer to West Ham’s demands.
The Hammers believe a bid from Manchester City is also imminent, as they look for £100m, with the guaranteed portion of that figure to be paid by the end of 2025.
Playing for Pep Guardiola could appeal to the player, though the manager’s expected departure in 2025 is less attractive.
Manchester United have also enquired for Rice in recent days, though they’re making a very different proposal.
United intend to offer £40m plus Harry Maguire and Anthony Elanga, and they’re viewed as outsiders in the race, with Arsenal remaining the favourites.
Fabrizio Romano claims Rice is open to any move at this stage, so where he ends up depends on the various clubs in the race, with Arsenal planning to bid again.
Rice is currently on holiday, after finally concluding a long season with a couple of games on international duty this week.
The 24-year-old has made 50 appearances for West Ham and 11 appearances for England over the last 12 months.
