West Ham boss David Moyes has stated that Declan Rice “could play for any club” amid speculation over a summer transfer. The midfielder has been linked with moves to both Arsenal and Manchester City, with the race to sign him heating up.
Despite having two bids rejected so far, we understand that Rice remains a top priority target for the Gunners. The initial offer was for a whole package of £80 million, before a second bid of £90 million, with add-ons added, was rejected.
Personal conditions have already been arranged, leading to a contract with the Hammers, but rejected proposals have opened the door for City. Pep Guardiola’s team was said to have made a first bid, but we believe it was premature.
We understand that if both teams make an offer that West Ham accepts, Rice would choose a move to Arsenal over a move to Manchester City. However, it is unclear where he would fit in either system, as he is capable of playing at center-back, in a deeper midfield role, or in a more advanced position.
According to sources, Arsenal are not given up on signing Declan Rice despite a rival approach from Manchester City and Arsenal preparing a third bid for the midfielder.
The Gunners have selected the West Ham captain as their top summer target, but have already had two bids rejected.
Arsenal’s second bid was thought to be worth roughly £90 million, albeit around £15 million was made up of add-ons and was payable over several years.
Although Pep Guardiola is close to completing a deal for Chelsea’s Mateo Kovacic, the departure of Ilkay Gundogan has prompted a search for another midfielder, and the triple champions are ratcheting up their pursuit of Rice.
City has yet to submit an official bid, but they are anticipated to come closer to West Ham’s asking price, putting pressure on Arsenal to respond with a better offer of their own.