Arsenal are bracing themselves for showdown talks in the race to sign Declan Rice. The 24-year-old continues to be heavily linked with a big move this summer following his impressive performances for West Ham.
Despite the arrival of Jorginho in January, football.london understand that the Gunners identified Rice as a priority signing earlier this year. Mikel Arteta is in the market for a new midfielder and the Hammers captain has been identified as a worthy replacement for Thomas Partey, who's expected to leave.
West Ham were initially reluctant to offload Rice, who sees his contract at the London Stadium expire in 12-months, but, after leading the club to European glory, David Sullivan sanctioned his departure. Arsenal once looked well positioned to secure the England international, though they now face tough competition from Manchester City.
football.london understands that the Gunners will beat the Premier League champions to Rice if they either table an offer that exceeds £100million or one which guarantees a significant fee to be paid upfront. It's believed that the Englishman prefers a move to the Emirates Stadium, but he'd be open to joining City if they manage to blow Arsenal out of the water with a larger bid.
As the bidding war prolongs, it's said that showdown talks are just around the corner. According to Fabrizio Romano, the north Londoners have confirmed to West Ham that they plan to submit one final bid for Rice after their latest proposal was rejected.
The Italian journalist added that City are preparing an official bid, though it remains to be seen how much Pep Guardiola's side will offer. In the past, the Champions League champions have proven that they have no issue with splashing the cash.
And, having just won the treble, they certainly have the funds to lure Rice to the Etihad Stadium. Speaking to Sky Sports, David James questioned why the West Ham star would want to join Arsenal.
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"Declan Rice is top-drawer and Manchester City is the best team in Europe, probably going to be the best team in the world in a few months after they win the Club World Cup," said the former England international. "If Declan Rice is a part of that, it’s because he deserves to be."
Then, when quizzed on Arsenal's interest, James replied: "Why would he want to play for Arsenal? One team (Man City) is the European, FA Cup and Premier League champions, the other is neither, or none!"
Should Arsenal go all out to sign Rice...?
