West Ham United news: Twist emerges in Arsenal pursuit of Declan Rice amid Manchester United and Manchester City links
Arsenal are reportedly looking at another midfielder as a backup to West Ham ace Declan Rice, amid Manchester United and Manchester City links.
According to FC Inter News [22 June], the Gunners are considering Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella despite submitting a bid for Rice.
The budget is understood to be similar for the Italian midfielder and there’s a chance of them pursuing him if they fail to sign the Hammers 24-year-old.
Prepared for defeat?
Arsenal look like they’re having other options readied as they could end up missing out on Rice.
With City and Manchester United capable of outbidding them to the 24-year-old, the Gunners could be preparing for defeat.
They appeared to be favourites to sign him for the past few months and personal terms are also very likely agreed upon.
Mikel Arteta is believed to be a huge admirer of Rice and will not want to give up so easily but Arsenal certainly have spending limitations.
West Ham will not reduce their demands to cater to a specific club and they’re well aware of how the market is today.
Anything north of £110million and a deal is likely to be done so it remains to be seen which club can first reach that.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers are already preparing to cash in on the Declan Rice money as they hold a transfer meeting in London as they’re confident of sealing a £50million signing.