Arsenal are said to be preparing to make an £85 million bid for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, according to sources from Football Insider. The Gunners are eager to secure a deal for Rice, although their initial offer will be below West Ham’s £100 million valuation. Rice, 24, is expected to leave West Ham this summer and is attracting significant interest in the upcoming transfer window.
Arsenal’s Pursuit of Declan Rice:
Football Insider previously reported on May 9th that Arsenal would need to pay a minimum of £100 million to acquire the English international, which would make him their record signing. West Ham manager David Moyes has made it clear that a substantial fee will be required to lure Rice away from the London Stadium. However, Arsenal’s first offer is anticipated to be at least £15 million below West Ham’s asking price.
Arsenal are considered to be in a favorable position to secure the signing of Declan Rice, as the midfielder is keen to remain in London and play Champions League football. Among the capital’s clubs, Arsenal is the only one capable of providing that opportunity.
Rice’s Season with West Ham:
Rice has made 46 appearances across all competitions this season for West Ham, who are currently struggling at the bottom end of the Premier League table. The Hammers sit in 15th place with 37 points from 36 games and have only managed one win in their last four matches.
West Ham’s Current Situation:
With just a couple of games remaining against Leeds United and Leicester City, West Ham stand six points clear of the relegation zone. The Hammers are also vying for a spot in the Europa Conference League final, with a match against AZ Alkmaar scheduled for May 18th.
