In a dramatic turn of events, Arsenal has emerged as the frontrunner to sign Declan Rice from West Ham, following Manchester City’s decision to abandon their pursuit of the talented midfielder, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Sources reveal that Arsenal’s relentless pursuit of Rice has finally paid off, as West Ham has accepted the Gunners’ third and final offer worth a staggering £100 million, with an additional £5 million in add-ons. While some minor details remain to be ironed out, the deal is expected to be a mere formality at this stage. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet.
Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, ultimately chose not to match or exceed Arsenal’s offer, effectively ruling themselves out of the race for the services of the England international, sources indicate. City had previously tabled an offer of £80 million, with an additional £10 million in add-ons, which was swiftly rejected by West Ham on Monday.
It appears that Arsenal’s bid has already surpassed the valuation that City had in mind for Rice, who is just 24 years old. In a strategic move, Arsenal managed to secure personal terms with the midfielder, solidifying their position in the negotiations. Coincidentally, on the same day, Arsenal officially confirmed the signing of Kai Havertz from Chelsea for a hefty sum of £67.5 million.
West Ham had long anticipated Rice’s departure this summer, particularly after his instrumental role in guiding the club to the Europa Conference League title earlier this month. The midfielder currently has one year remaining on his contract, with an option for an additional year.
Sources close to the matter reveal that Arsenal had encountered initial setbacks with their opening two offers for Rice. Both bids were promptly rejected by West Ham, including an offer of £75 million, with an additional £15 million in add-ons.
Although Manchester United had also expressed interest in Rice, they have been unable to match West Ham’s valuation, leaving Arsenal with a clear path to securing the midfielder’s signature.
Meanwhile, Manchester City has already strengthened their midfield options this summer with the acquisition of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea in a deal worth £25 million, with an additional £5 million in add-ons. The decision to pursue Rice intensified after Ilkay Gundogan’s departure, as the midfielder opted to join Barcelona on a free transfer.
Sources close to City reveal that the club remains confident in their stance regarding Rice, as they have consistently adhered to their player valuation principles in the past. Despite missing out on notable targets such as Marc Cucurella, Harry Maguire, Jorginho, and Kalidou Koulibaly, City remains steadfast in their belief that their decisions were justified.
Looking ahead, City is expected to make a move for 21-year-old Croatian center-back Josko Gvardiol, who is currently valued at approximately £86 million by RB Leipzig. As the transfer window continues to unfold, the landscape of the Premier League is set for further excitement and surprises. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.
