Arsenal transfer news: Sky reporter drops interesting Declan Rice update

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Dharmesh Sheth has provided an update on Arsenal’s transfer pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice.

The Sky reporter shared that the ‘early indications’ suggest that there is a ‘gap in valuation’ for the 24-year-old midfielder.

But he added that there is the possibility that, if Declan Rice ‘doesn’t want to go anywhere else’ other than Arsenal, then West Ham are in a position where they ‘can’t create a bidding war’, as he told Sky Sports.

German giants Bayern Munich have expressed interest in Rice, but could they be pushing themselves away from this deal?

The Gunners will feel that they have an advantage over clubs like Liverpool and Chelsea because they have Champions League football, whilst their only worry would be if Manchester United and Manchester City enter the chat.

Either way, Sheth provided an update on the Rice-Arsenal transfer situation, which is now starting to speed up. 

“It appears as though Declan Rice is their primary target,” said Sheth. “We are told that Arsenal will continue in their pursuit of Declan Rice.

“Early indications are suggesting a gap in the valuation for the player. Arsenal do have other targets if the Rice deal doesn’t materialise. But they will try and try to get this one over the line.

“West Ham are thought to want in excess of £100 million for Declan Rice – I just wonder whether the price could be impacted if there is encouragement from the Declan Rice camp that the only club they want is Arsenal and that’s it and he doesn’t want to go anywhere else.

“If that’s the case, then West Ham are in a position where they can’t almost create a bidding war with any other club because Declan Rice would have made his mind up.

“I am told, if a deal can be struck between Arsenal and West Ham, then personal terms aren’t expected to be a problem. I think Arsenal are going to push sooner rather than later to try and get this Declan Rice deal done.”

Will Rice cost over £100 million?

To the rest of the footballing world, Rice might not be worth £100 million, but to West Ham, he is worth more – Owen Hargreaves agreed with that back in April and called him a ‘fabulous’ player.

That was proven this season by the Hammers winning the Europa Conference League and also avoiding relegation to the Championship. Without him, they are in trouble.

So, from that perspective, West Ham should do everything they can to push that boat out and get £100 million plus for their club captain.