Welcome to the football.london transfer briefing. To help you keep on top of all things Arsenal going on in the market we've got the latest noises coming from social media, journalists and so-called ITKs, rounding up what's what in the world of the Gunners.
Rice move close
Arsenal are closing in on completing the club-record transfer of Declan Rice. The Gunners have been putting in the work to sign the West Ham skipper since January after identifying him as their priority target.
A third bid worth £100million ($127.3million) - with an additional £5million (£6.3m) in available add-ons - was accepted by the Hammers last week. The Guardian now reports that a suitable payment structure has been agreed between the two clubs.
As part of the deal, it is understood that the Hammers will receive £100million by the end of 2025.
football.london says: After failing in their first two bids for Rice, Arsenal look destined to get their man. Rice will improve Arteta's options in the middle of the park in so many ways and is another excellent example of the Gunners' new strategy in the market.
Even if Thomas Partey stays at the club, Rice's arrival was a must this summer. Playing in the Premier League and Champions League next season means they will need multiple options in midfield. Getting the deal completed with little trouble - despite Man City's attempted hijack - is a vital win for Arsenal.
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The time seems right for Rice to leave West Ham. After years linking him with a move to Chelsea, last season's UEFA Europa Conference League win was the perfect send-off. Rice has previously stated his intentions of playing in the Champions League and the time has come.
Lavia bid prepared
Arsenal are preparing to make their first move for Southampton starlet Romeo Lavia. According to reports, the Gunners will go ahead with their pursuit of the midfielder after completing the signing of Declan Rice.
Interest in Lavia has increased in recent days, with Liverpool growing confident in landing the 19-year-old. However, The Times have claimed that the north Londoners want to bid for Lavia once Rice's arrival is completed.
football.london says: Arsenal have learnt their lesson from previous years and are getting their work in order. Negotiations for Rice have taken some time, but with the deal looking more likely to be completed, focus can now turn on other targets.
Reports earlier this week that Liverpool were plotting their first move for Lavia seem to have accelerated Arsenal's pursuit of him. However, as we have seen with Rice and Mykhailo Mudryk, Arsenal do their best to avoid a heavy bidding war.
At just 19, Lavia's arrival would not only be a signing for the future, but would hand Partey a free pass to leave. The fact that Arteta is ready to overhaul his midfield after such an impressive season shows the trust in the Spaniard. It's just a question of whether the move will work.
