Manchester City’s bid for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice will be worth £75m upfront, plus £15m in add-ons, according to reporter Nathan Gissing.
Writing for GianlucaDiMarzio.com, the English journalist claims that the bonuses included in the offer are “realistically achievable”, making it “a better overall package than Arsenal’s”.
The Gunners have already had two bids rejected for Rice; the latest of which was valued at £80m plus another £10m in add-ons. Mikel Arteta’s side are expected to make a fresh offer for the midfielder soon which may exceed City’s proposal but it is now very much a two-horse race for the England international’s signature.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Rice is “open” to a move to the Etihad Stadium, which has prompted the Premier League champions to step up their interest in the player.
West Ham are still set to hold out for at least £100m for their club captain so there is likely to be plenty of twists and turns in this transfer story, but the fact that City are stepping up their attempts means a bidding war is now inevitable.
Will other teams join City and Arsenal in the battle for Rice?
There has been speculation that Manchester United may make a bid for the midfielder, with it being suggested that they could include Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay as part of their proposal. For the time being, though, they haven’t made a formal approach, unlike City and Arsenal.
Chelsea also have a longstanding interest in Rice, with the 24-year-old having come through the club’s academy, but it is widely believed that the Blues’ top midfield target is Brighton’s Moises Caicedo. Due to Financial Fair Play restrictions, it would be a surprise if they had the finances to make a move for Rice as well, considering West Ham’s asking price.
