Arsenal are closing in on the signature of 24-year-old West Ham United captain Declan Rice, valued at £100 million.
According to Football Insider, Arsenal are leading the race to sign Declan Rice. The 24-year-old West Ham United midfielder is one of the most sought-after players in the world at this point in time. There are numerous top clubs from across Europe interested in his services. However, it seems the Gunners are likely to win the £100 million race.
Rice started off at the Chelsea academy. But things did not work out well for him there and he moved to West Ham in the summer of 2013. And, has since gone up the ranks to become an integral part of their first team setup.
The England international has established himself as one of their most important players, and he is also their club captain. The 24-year-old has made over 235 appearances for the London club and also has 27 goal involvements.
As far as the ongoing season is concerned, Rice has featured in 43 matches and has eight goal contributions. He is the mainstay of their team and is amongst the best midfielders in the league. Rice’s contract with West Ham ends in the summer of 2024. But the Hammers have the option to extend it by a year.
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However, the West Ham captain is likely to leave the club in the summer. The likes of Manchester City and Chelsea are interested in having him in their ranks. And the Hammers want £100 million to part ways with the English international.
Manchester City are looking to further strengthen their midfield amid the uncertainty around İlkay Gundoaan and Bernardo Silva’s future. On the other hand, Chelsea want to re-sign their youth academy product as they look to revive themselves.
However, reports suggest that Arsenal are leading the race for his signatures. The Gunners are looking to strengthen their midfield ahead of next season. Mikel Arteta is keen on having more quality at his disposal as he looks to push for the league title again next season.
Arsenal are set to return to the Champions League after a long while, and they will need a lot more quality in their ranks to push for both titles. The Gunners are ready to pay the asking price of around £100 million. And on top of that, they have UCL football to offer. Even the player prefers staying in London, and a summer move seems likely.
