Arsenal Set to Secure Declan Rice with Record-Breaking Offer
Arsenal is reportedly set to win the race for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice after submitting a British-record offer worth £105million. The Gunners are confident that their third bid for the England midfielder will be accepted by the Hammers, beating competition from Manchester City.
The deal could potentially rise to £105million, making it a record fee involving a British player. Arsenal has offered a guaranteed £100m plus add-ons, which is expected to be enough to secure Rice’s services.
Rice, who has also held talks with Newcastle, has made it clear that Arsenal is his preferred destination. The 24-year-old is in high demand this summer after Hammers owner David Sullivan confirmed that his Europa Conference League final-winning performance would be his last game for the club.
City emerged as late contenders to sign Rice, especially after the departure of Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona. However, Pep Guardiola’s side has since acquired Croatia midfielder Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea.
Arsenal’s Busy Transfer Market
Arsenal is set to be busy in the transfer market this summer, with Chelsea forward Kai Havertz and Ajax defender Jurrien Timber also closing in on moves. The Gunners are looking to strengthen their squad after finishing eighth in the Premier League last season.
Havertz, who joined Chelsea for £71m last summer, has struggled to make an impact at Stamford Bridge and could be available for a cut-price fee. The German forward is seen as a potential replacement for Alexandre Lacazette, who has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium.
Timber, meanwhile, is highly rated in Dutch football and could provide competition for Arsenal’s current crop of defenders. The 20-year-old has been scouted extensively by the Gunners and is seen as a long-term prospect.
Record-Breaking Offer for Rice
Arsenal’s record-breaking offer for Rice is a clear statement of intent from the Gunners. The midfielder is widely regarded as one of the best young players in English football and has been linked with a move away from West Ham for some time.
Rice’s versatility is one of his key strengths, as he can play in midfield or defence. He has also established himself as a regular in the England squad, playing a key role in their run to the Euro 2020 final.
The potential £105million fee for Rice would surpass the previous British transfer record of £100m, which was set when Manchester United signed Paul Pogba from Juventus in 2016. It would also be a significant coup for Arsenal, who have struggled to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea in recent years.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s pursuit of Declan Rice is set to come to a successful conclusion, with the Gunners confident that their record-breaking offer will be accepted by West Ham. The midfielder is seen as a key addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad, as Arsenal looks to challenge for a top-four finish next season.
The potential £105million fee for Rice would be a significant investment for Arsenal, but it could prove to be a shrewd move in the long run. The midfielder has all the attributes to become a top-class player and could be a cornerstone of the Gunners’ squad for years to come.
Overall, Arsenal’s busy transfer market this summer is a clear sign that the club is looking to build for the future. With the likes of Havertz and Timber also set to join, Arsenal fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.