West Ham United transfer update as ‘most likely’ Declan Rice destination emerges, £100m fee mooted
Premier League leaders Arsenal remain the “most likely destination” for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, according to talkSPORT.
The 24-year-old is destined to leave the London Stadium this summer, with his club holding out for a £100million fee, and is said to be excited by the prospect of a move.
The West Ham skipper shone against the Gunners in their 2-2 Premier League draw on Sunday (16 April).
As per talkSPORT: “Arsenal remains Declan Rice’s most likely destination despite the outside possibility of an ambitious swoop from Newcastle, talkSPORT understands.
“Sources have confirmed Rice is on Newcastle’s radar if they decide to move away from their cautious approach and spend big in the summer.
“The England international is almost certain to leave West Ham at the end of the season with the Hammers holding out for a fee of up to £100million.”
Uncertain future
Rice has excelled once again for the Hammers this season, putting in several commanding displays in midfield as other teammates have struggled.
But after many years of top performances, it seems that the midfielder’s time in East London is drawing to a close, with Rice eager to test himself at a higher level, with that level involving Champions League football.
Such a desire would currently rule out a switch to the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea, who remain unlikely to be participating in Champions League football next season.
It could, therefore, open the door to Newcastle, although Eddie Howe’s Magpies could find themselves in a battle with Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester City.
At just 24, Rice has already achieved a lot for both club and country, but could thrive even further at a club regularly challenging for trophies.
One very unlikely option involves Rice staying at West Ham beyond the summer, but that option will be made impossible if the Hammers suffer relegation from the Premier League.