The race for Declan Rice this summer is reaching a decisive moment as clubs chasing his signature have to decide if they're all in or out. Arsenal are one of the sides following a move for the midfielder as they look to make the West Ham captain their marquee signing for a midfield revamp.
football.london understands that the 24-year-old is still a top priority target for the coming weeks ahead, despite having two bids rejected by the Hammers so far. The opening offer was a total package worth £80million, with the second reaching £90million, but included all add-ons being achieved.
With their inability to strike a deal early on, it has given enough time for Manchester City to join the battle for the England international. Reports have claimed that a bid has been tabled by the Premier League champions, but football.london understands that to be premature.
It does mean there's a challenge at hand though, with West Ham believed to be holding out for over £100million to let Rice leave this summer. City seemingly be able to match that price, however football.london understands that if Arsenal also manage to agree a deal, then Rice will pick the Gunners over their rivals.
That is easier than it may seems though as Arsenal are unlikely to join a bidding war for the midfielder, as has been their policy over recent windows. There has naturally been a clamouring from some fans to ensure a deal goes through though, no matter the price it may cost.
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That in itself may be a costly mistake that the Gunners would regret going forward, as it has been the recent shift in transfer policy that has seen them rise to the top. Their rigid strategy has seen them miss top targets, but has often been followed up with more than capable secondary options.
It means the side have always got the transfer value that they bargain for, even if it means some short-term pain in missing an initial target. It's a mistake made by Manchester United all too often in the last decade, who have shown teams that they are willing to cave and pay inflated prices.
As a result, the valuations made from teams for United targets are greatly increased, resulting in a difficult situation where they're staring at overpaying for a player or missing out purely for being Manchester United. While Rice may be viewed as a target worth risking that for, it sets a dangerous precedent for deals to come.
It remains to be seen if the Gunners can and will get a deal done within their anticipated valuation range, but it could be a dilemma for the future.
Who would you keep or sell at Arsenal this summer?
