West Ham Rejects Arsenal’s Second Bid for Declan Rice
West Ham has rejected Arsenal’s second bid for midfielder Declan Rice, which was worth £90 million. The proposal included £75 million and £15 million in add-ons, but West Ham officials immediately turned it down as they refuse to budge on their demand of a British record fee. To land the England midfield star, the Gunners will have to beat the £106 million Chelsea paid for Enzo Fernandez in February. The Gunners had another bid pushed back by the Hammers last week.
Arsenal’s Priority Transfer Target
Rice is Arsenal’s priority transfer target this summer. The Gunners have been preparing a swoop for the midfielder since January and are hoping to bring him to North London before the start of pre-season next month. Personal terms have already been agreed, with Rice understood to be eager to make the switch to the Emirates Stadium. Manchester City is also interested, but they are yet to bid due to the midfielder’s desire to join Arsenal.
Other Transfer Targets
The Gunners are also pursuing a deal to sign Kai Havertz from Chelsea. The Blues have already rejected a bid for the Germany international, who is keen on the prospect of a move to Arsenal, but they could be tempted to let him go for £60 million. Jurrien Timber is another name on Arteta’s transfer wishlist. Arsenal launched a £30 million bid for the defender last week, but Ajax want around £50 million. The Gunners also want to sign Romeo Lavia from Southampton, although the Saints want a club-record fee for the young midfielder.
Implications of the Rejected Bid
The rejection of Arsenal’s second bid for Rice could have significant implications for the Gunners’ transfer plans this summer. With Rice being their priority target, they may have to look elsewhere if they cannot meet West Ham’s asking price. This could lead to them pursuing other midfield targets, such as Havertz or Lavia, or even looking to strengthen other areas of the squad.
Headings:
– West Ham Rejects Arsenal’s Second Bid for Declan Rice
– Arsenal’s Priority Transfer Target
– Other Transfer Targets
– Implications of the Rejected Bid