Declan Rice is steadily becoming Arsenal’s priority target for the summer, as the Gunners could break their transfer record.
According to Daily Mail, Arsenal are prioritising a summer move for Declan Rice. The Gunners could break their transfer record by signing the 23-year-old English international. But West Ham United are likely to accept their fate with the star midfielder.
Declan Rice is set to ignite a huge transfer battle between top English clubs when the summer transfer window opens. West Ham United have tried their best to extend the midfielder’s contract. But they are now resigned to see him depart the London Stadium after the season ends.
There is no shortage of suitors for the 23-year-old English international, with a host of top Premier League clubs already on the case. Chelsea had been the clear favourites for some time, and Rice had shown an inclination to rejoin his boyhood club.
But reports of Chelsea looking to lodge a bid for Moises Caicedo may indicate they might move in a different direction to Rice. There is no doubt regarding their interest and financial muscle. The idea may stem from their low probability of not qualifying for the UEFA Champions League next season.
Moreover, Chelsea have spent heavily in the last six months, and there could be further questions if they make another big splash. Not making it to next season’s Champions League will become a big factor in the race for Rice. And Arsenal are now emerging as the favourites for the 23-year-old English international.
Rice’s recent comments on wanting to play in the Champions League might resonate well with Arsenal fans. He recently said, “I see my friends who play in the Champions League, winning the big trophies. You only get one career; at the end of your career, you want to look at what you’ve won.”
Arteta has reportedly given the green light to sign Rice next summer. If Arsenal manage to bring him, it will come as a statement signing and one that will see them break their transfer record. The prospect of remaining in London could appeal to Rice. But more importantly, he will join a group hungry for trophies.
Recent reports suggested Arsenal could sign Rice if they win the Premier League. The Gunners are in a fantastic position, as they sit eight points clear of second-placed Manchester City. The West Ham captain will cost a huge sum, with the Hammers likely demanding at least £100 million.
The English midfielder’s current deal expires in 2024, but West Ham can extend it by another season. They may not exercise the option but could accept their fate of losing Rice in the next window. Whether Arsenal manage to sign him remains to be seen, but they are one of the top contenders for his signature.
