Reports have emerged that Arsenal is prepared to make a significant move in their efforts to sign midfielder Declan Rice next summer for a fee in the region of €100 million.
Rice has gained recognition as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League. His performances at the base of midfield for West Ham in many seasons have garnered the attention of many top clubs in the division. And a transfer in the summer seems inevitable.
The English footballer has previously expressed his desire to rejoin Chelsea, the club where he began his youth career. However, Chelsea’s current precarious league position will likely prevent them from participating in the Champions League next season making a move to a team in the major European competition a priority for Rice. This has given Arsenal an edge in the race for his signature.
Manager Mikel Arteta has identified Rice as his primary target for the upcoming transfer window and rumors suggest that a deal could be in the works.
Arsenal may need to break their transfer record of €80 million which was paid to LOSC Lille for Nicolas Pepe to secure the midfielder’s services.
West Ham manager David Moyes has previously stated that it would take a British record bid to sign Rice. However, it is unlikely that any interested clubs could pay more than the €100 million that Arsenal is reportedly willing to offer which should meet West Ham’s demands for their star player.
Arsenal is currently competing for the Premier League title with Manchester City and a victory could attract even more high-profile players to the club.
