Declan Rice has posted another message on social media, giving a behind the scenes look at his pre-season preparations ahead of a switch to Arsenal this summer.
It comes as the 24-year-old is made to wait on his move to the Emirates Stadium in the transfer window, following a dramatic saga that has played out for weeks. The Gunners saw two opening bids of £80million and £90million respectively turned down by the Hammers.
Premier League title rivals Manchester City joined the conversation, having their opening offer turned down, but increasing the bidding price. Arsenal then stepped up their own deal, tabling £105million that was accepted by West Ham in principle and resulted in City backing out of the race.
It would take some time before a full agreement was reached, with instalments being a key factor to determine whether the deal would go ahead or not. That was eventually finalised, with a medical taking place, but a delay in any announcement has caused concern amongst the fanbase.
Reports have since stated that a delay is being caused by lawyers drafting final paperwork, which is adding frustration to the West Ham end of proceedings. Amidst all of the chaos is Rice, who is still in slight limbo while confirmation over the deal is confirmed on both ends.
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With pre-season underway for most, Rice has been away in Portugal, where he is part of a training camp at a venue called 'The Campus' alongside fellow stars. The England international posted another update late on Wednesday night, with an Instagram post that said: "Stepping it up."
He was seen with the likes of Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes, AC Milan ace Rafael Leao and new Tottenham signing James Maddison. The first two commented on the post with fist bumping emojis, to which the midfielder replied with the same, outlining their bond during the trip.
It remains to be seen how long it will be before Rice can join up with the rest of the Arsenal squad as a new Gunners player, with the deal now dragging on.
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