Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale may have dropped a subtle hint towards a transfer for Declan Rice in the upcoming summer transfer window. The West Ham midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to the Gunners, along with Manchester United and Bayern Munich.
football.london understands that Rice is a top priority for Arsenal in the coming weeks, with Mikel Arteta hopeful of adding to his midfield ranks. The Gunners won't be drawn into a bidding war though, as seen when they backed out of moves for Mykhailo Mudryk and Lisandro Martinez over the past year.
The north London club have long been touted as a destination for the 24-year-old though, but the timing on any move has often been complicated. The Hammers captain has only recently finished his season in club football, taking West Ham to a Europa Conference League title.
With that now out of the way, there may be a clearer idea as to which way the future may play out for Rice and the options at his disposal. While many clubs are lining up to make an offer, there are two-years left on his contract at the London Stadium, which could see him stay.
However, reports have claimed that an opening bid for Rice from Arsenal is nearing in the coming days, with the total package valuation set at £90million to begin with. That contrasts other reports claiming that the Irons are holding out for £120million, leaving a £30million gap to be worked on.
In the mean time though, the midfielder will continue his work as there's little time for him to go on his own holiday in the close season. Instead, he has joined up with the England international squad for the upcoming European Championship qualifiers for the 2024 tournament.
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The Three Lions face Malta and North Macedonia in two games that could see them take four victories from as many matches in their group. Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Aaron Ramsdale are in the camp, where they were reunited with Rice once again ahead of the double header.
Whether the England star will join his compatriots at London Colney this summer remains to be seen, though Ramsdale may have dropped a hint over a move. Posting an image of the two embracing on their reunion to his Instagram story, the shot-stopper put the caption: "[Love heart] the boy."
There will be many of an Arsenal persuasion hopeful that's a sign of things to come between the pair, but in the red of the Gunners in the coming weeks.
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