West Ham striker Michail Antonio joked with Newcastle forward Callum Wilson over the transfer situation of Declan Rice, even going as far as to claim that he is "definitely leaving". The midfielder has been linked with a whole host of clubs ahead of the summer transfer window, with just over 12-months remaining on his current contract.
football.london understands that Arsenal have made a move for Rice their top priority in the coming months as part of a midfield rebuild. It seems unlikely that the England international will sign a new deal with the Hammers, having previously stated his desire to play in the top competitions.
“I’ve been playing consistently well for my club and I feel like I really want to keep pushing," the 24-year-old told media back in December. "I see my friends here who are playing Champions League and for big trophies. You only get one career and at the end you want to look back at what you’ve won and the biggest games you’ve played in.”
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Any move is unlikely to come cheap, given his importance to West Ham, though there will be hope for a discounted price due to his dwindling contract. The London side have set lofty heights so far, as Sky Sports reports that the Hammers will only come at a price point of £120million.
However, they are only likely to deal with clubs in the Champions League and given the fact the Gunners have already confirmed their return, that could be a huge boost in their pursuit. A move away appears to be on the minds of other footballers too, even teammate Antonio.
Speaking on the Footballer’s Football Podcast, Wilson was discussing transfers and said on Rice: "Every summer apparently Declan Rice is leaving right?" Antonio replied: "Every single summer.” to which Wilson jokingly said back: "Except this one he definitely is leaving."
It remains to be seen if that is the case, though Antonio didn't confirm nor deny that a switch for his teammate could be in the works in the coming weeks or months.
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