David Ornstein has reported that Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal will now try to “rapidly” get a deal done for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice.
The Athletic journalist has said on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel that Arsenal are determined to sign Declan Rice from London and Premier League rivals West Ham United in the summer transfer window.
The well-known and well-respected reporter has claimed that now that West Ham’s season is finished, Arsenal will press on with their interest in the 24-year-old and will try to “strike an agreement”.
The Hammers won the UEFA Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina in midweek.
The Northern Echo have reported that Arsenal are leading the race for the midfielder, adding that the North London club are planning to make a bid of £90 million.
The report has claimed interest from Newcastle United in Rice.
Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United are also reportedly keen on the midfielder.
Ornstein said: “I sense that consensus across the industry is that Arsenal will try and press on with this and rapidly to try and strike an agreement.”
Could Arsenal sign Declan Rice from West Ham United?
The Times have reported that West Ham United want £100 million for Declan Rice, while The Northern Echo have claimed that Arsenal are willing to pay £90 million for the England international.
So, it seems that for Arsenal to convince the Hammers to sell them the midfielder, they need to increase their offer by £10 million.
If Arsenal are really keen on Rice, then they should just pay the extra £10 million and get a deal done.
As for Rice himself, moving to Arsenal and playing for a club who will feature in the UEFA Champions League next season and will aim to challenge for the Premier League title in the coming years would be hugely appealing.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
