Figures close to Declan Rice want the West Ham United star to secure a transfer to Arsenal this summer. But Manchester United could pose a serious threat in any tug-of-war for him.
That is according to Dean Jones, who reports that those around Rice feel Arsenal will offer the best destination. His camp are convinced that Mikel Arteta will hand the 24-year-old a platform he needs to flourish. But the midfielder has yet to decide his stance on his future.
Rice is weighing up his options and likes that a move to Arsenal would allow him to stay in London. He would prefer to stay close to his family in the capital and also admires Gunners boss Arteta. The Spaniard has impressed Rice with how quickly he made them title threats.
Declan Rice would appreciate a transfer to Arsenal or Manchester United
A chance to work under Arteta intrigues Rice, who Arsenal hero Jack Wilshere is striving to convince to join them. But Rice would also appreciate a chance to join Manchester United if he opts to leave London. He admires their heritage and Erik ten Hag’s early work in charge.
Manchester United are also likely to offer Rice a larger salary to reject a transfer to Arsenal from West Ham. The 39-cap England anchor is not letting money drive his decision. But the Red Devils could gazump whatever the Gunners put on the table should any talks progress.
How much do West Ham want and how much could Arsenal offer?
West Ham have so far failed to convince Rice to extend his contract at the London Stadium beyond 2024. The Irons hold the option to extend his £60k-a-week terms by a further year. So, the Hammers would hope to earn £100m for a star Ian Wright has called ‘world-class’.
A chance to join Arsenal in a summer transfer from West Ham also excites Rice, notes Kaya Kaynak. The midfielder, himself, finds Arteta’s admiration pleasing and is flattered that the Gunners are exploring a deal. Thus, Edu’s quest to sign the England star is looking positive.
Reports by The Times even note that Arsenal are confident of securing Rice’s transfer from West Ham ahead of Chelsea. The Blues are fighting Arteta for the Gunners’ top target. But Emirates Stadium chiefs believe they will win the race with an £80m swoop in the summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
