Sam Stone

Mon 26 June 2023 18:40, UK

Sky Sports News reporter Dhamesh Sheth has claimed all could “change” when it comes to West Ham captain Declan Rice and his desire to move to Arsenal.

It’s believed the 24-year-old is still eager to move to The Emirates despite Manchester City lurking in the background.

Talking live on Sky Sports News on Monday 26 June, Sheth has suggested the England star’s mind could change as the saga edges closer to a conclusion.

“One source has told us that Declan Rice’s preferred destination remains Arsenal but, of course, we know in football that can change,” said Sheth (Sky Sports News, 26 June).

“If someone like Manchester City or Pep Guardiola goes in for a player, how difficult would it be for someone like Declan Rice to turn down those advances?

“I think Manchester City’s interest works in West Ham United’s favour because if there was only one show in town they can’t really create that bidding war to get up to that £100-£120million that they want.”

Who knows

Hopefully, all will become clearer in the coming weeks.

The sooner this saga reaches a conclusion the better for everyone concerned.

The West Ham board will be desperate to land their valuation of Rice during the summer. If he remains and edges closer to the end of his contract, he could depart for near the £50million mark in 2024. That’s a scenario nobody wants.

It’s important to remember that the Hammers have a big summer of recruitment to plan for themselves. But, until Rice’s future is sorted, it’s hard to envisage any incomings.

Only Rice knows where his preferred destination lies. Much has been made of his desire to move to Arsenal, but, at present, that’s merely paper talk.

If Manchester City come calling, Rice will 100 per cent consider moving to The Etihad – why wouldn’t he? Under the stewardship of Pep Guardiola, there’s every chance of the midfielder going on to be one of the best midfielders on the planet.

It’s fair to say most West Ham fans would be eager for him to end up in the North West.