Declan Rice's future has all the ingredients to become this summer's main transfer saga with Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea all interested in his signature.
However, there could very well be some fresh developments in the coming days amid talk of the Gunners returning with an improved bid after seeing an opening offer - that would have seen them pay £80million over six years - rejected instantly by London rivals West Ham United.
It's understood that the Hammers want more of the money paid upfront and whilst Arsenal remain confident that the deal can be done this summer, their stance is that it will ultimately come down to the player to decide amid interest from sides like Man City and Chelsea.
Now, considering Rice is currently away on international duty with England - playing the full 90 minutes of their 4-0 Euro 2024 qualifier against Malta on Friday night - it's perhaps unlikely that his future will be sorted until the Three Lions' camp wraps up following Monday's game against North Macedonia.
From there the 24-year-old will likely jet off for an overdue holiday having joined up with Gareth Southgate's squad earlier than expected after playing in the Europa League Conference final. This in turn leaves Arsenal with a small window of opportunity to accelerate a deal.
The plan all along for Gunners technical director Edu Gaspar has been to complete this move quickly and with the domestic transfer window now open, if a fee can be agreed then Rice can officially be registered as an Arsenal player as per FIFA's ruling on deals between two Premier League clubs.
READ MORE: New Rice bid, £50m for Havertz, Caicedo blow, Lavia move - Arsenal midfield transfer latest
As a result, all eyes will be on Rice's movements after England face North Macedonia at Old Trafford this coming Monday as being in the UK sets up an opportunity for Arsenal to complete all the formalities potentially within 24-48 hours - provided they can reach an agreement with West Ham over a fee - before the midfielder heads off on holiday.
Although, there is a strong possibility the transfer may have to wait until after Rice returns from his break especially as the club have already revealed 'any further developments regarding players extending their contracts; joining/re-joining us; or leaving us will be officially communicated as soon as they are confirmed'.
Who should stay and who should go at Arsenal this summer? Have your say below!
READ NEXT:
Arsenal's Declan Rice transfer bid structure revealed and why West Ham rejected it out of hand
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Rice £100m bid, Diaby offer, Lavia boost, 13 exits confirmed
