Peter Lynch

Thu 15 June 2023 7:40, UK

Talks between Arsenal and West Ham captain Declan Rice are underway, with the Gunners offering a package worth over £100million, according to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook.

The journalist noted that the 24-year-old’s preferred destination is the Gunners, with a move to North London set to make him the most expensive British player of all time.

Crook, however, added that Manchester City could yet scupper any Arsenal deal for the midfielder due to their financial prowess.

“Arsenal remain his preferred destination, talks between the two clubs already underway,” according to talkSPORT’s Crook.

“Arsenal offering a package that will be worth more than £100million, talkSPORT understands. That would make Rice the most expensive British player in history.

“The only nagging suspicion with this one is what happens if Manchester City suddenly show some interest. They have the spending power to blow Arsenal out of the water, and surely a young English player like Rice would love to go and work and learn from the great Pep Guardiola.”

Lengthy saga

Arsenal and Manchester City have an interesting recent history, with the two clubs going head-to-head for the Premier League title last season, with the latter coming out on top in the end.

That battle showed the more intense rivalry between the two clubs, but they also share a close bond, with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta previously working alongside Guardiola in Manchester.

Their strong relationship has helped Arteta bring the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko to the Emirates.

But now their relationship could once again turn fierce if indeed both are in the running to sign West Ham and England ace Rice.

The Hammers captain will undoubtedly go for big money this summer, but where he goes remains a mystery.

It has already been a lengthy saga, but it could continue in the weeks to come as West Ham look to get the best deal possible, both when it comes to themselves and their beloved captain.