Arsenal are ready to step up the case for Declan Rice, as talks have reportedly begun with West Ham United.
According to Football Transfers, Arsenal are ready to step up their chase for Declan Rice. The Gunners have held talks with West Ham United, but negotiations could prove complicated. Besides coughing up a massive transfer fee, the Hammers may also want players as part of the deal.
Arsenal are set to finish the season in second place as their loss to Nottingham Forest made Manchester City the Champions. While it has been a disappointing end for Mikel Arteta’s men, the road toward greatness has just begun for the north Londoners.
Arteta has led a young team, the youngest in the league until Southampton took over that tag with their January signings. However, to handle the pressure and keep Arsenal on top of the league for around 247 days, the manager will look to strengthen this group and challenge for honours next season.
Additionally, Arteta will come under pressure to perform in the Champions League and ensure Arsenal keep playing in the competition for years to come. The manager might already be thinking about another title challenge, so he would need certain players.
Arteta’s priority target is Declan Rice, with the Spaniard ready to revamp his midfield options. For starters, Granit Xhaka is already set to depart in the summer, while the manager could make systemic changes to make the Gunners a more compact side tactically.
Arsenal have long considered Rice their top priority for the summer window and are ready to spend a record sum to sign the England international. The Gunners are already formulating an offer to sign the 24-year-old Premier League star.
West Ham are keen to demand over £100 million for the midfielder, although Arsenal might look to bring that price tag down. Rice has a year left on his deal and could walk away for free in 2024. Hence, the Gunners could take advantage but still pay a huge, club-record sum between £85-90 million for the 24-year-old Premier League star.
The two clubs have already begun discussions for the star midfielder, but negotiations could prove complicated. Hammers boss David Moyes reportedly wants players in part exchange, with Sambi Lokonga and Folarin Balogun among those mentioned in the report.
However, Arsenal will look for a straight cash deal and is otherwise likely to reduce the asking price depending on the value of the player exchanged. Rice may also be keen on joining the Gunners based on the many reports in the media.