The transfer window is about to open and Arsenal is reportedly interested in signing West Ham’s skipper Declan Rice. However, they are not alone in the race to sign the England star, as Bayern Munich, Manchester United, and Manchester City have also been linked to the midfielder.
According to a top journalist, Arsenal is said to be preparing a low-ball offer for Rice from West Ham, on one condition. If this deal goes through, Rice could leave West Ham just six days after their Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina.
Arsenal has also been linked to Rice’s best friend, Mason Mount, as well as the likes of Ilkay Gundogan. The Gunners have reportedly made it their goal to get business done for their prime targets as early as possible.
However, a bidding war would be the ideal scenario for West Ham, as it could drive the price up for Rice. The Hammers’ board will be hoping for this outcome, especially after talk of Arsenal offering slightly below the asking price at £92m. Bayern Munich is also being heavily linked with Rice, but they are reportedly unwilling to match West Ham’s asking price.
West Ham fans will undoubtedly be disappointed to see Rice leave, especially after their impressive season and first European silverware in 58 years. However, if he does leave, they will be hoping he does so in a fitting manner.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will be successful in their bid to sign Rice, or whether the Hammers will be able to hold on to their coveted midfielder. With the transfer window set to open soon, it will be interesting to see how this saga unfolds.
In the meantime, West Ham will need to prepare for the possibility of Rice’s departure and consider possible replacements in the midfield. Whoever they acquire will have big boots to fill, as Rice has been an integral part of their success over the past few seasons.
