Arsenal in advanced talks to rescue Declan Rice deal as last-gasp West Ham United issue emerges
A deal in principle has finally been agreed between West Ham and Arsenal for the transfer of Declan Rice.
As reported by the Daily Mail (28 June) the Gunners’ third offer of £100million guaranteed plus an extra £5million in add-ons is set to be accepted with the two clubs now ironing out the finer details over payment terms.
There is however an issue in these advanced talks, but one that has just been described as “minor.”
Arsenal are offering to pay the £100million guaranteed over the course of four years while West Ham would prefer the fee to be paid in two instalments by the start of 2025.
However, both clubs are now working toward a solution to this dispute with it not being seen as enough to cause a collapse in any negotiations.
Done deal
This latest report all but confirms Rice’s move to Arsenal.
After Manchester City withdrew from the race to sign the West Ham captain, it left Arsenal in pole position to complete the signing. In reality, it has felt as if it would be Mikel Arteta’s side for weeks with no other club pushing as hard.
City did have an offer rejected however it never seemed as if they were willing to pay what the Gunners were and David Sullivan would have been happy to see the price driven up by the numerous bids.
It seems impossible now that anything will stop this deal going through and for West Ham fans it is time to say goodbye to a club legend. The 24-year-old’s farewell will surely be emotional, however, it won’t be on bad terms.
His last game for the club saw Rice captain the Hammers to their first major trophy in 43 years, what a way to bow out.
In other West Ham news, a potential Rice replacement reportedly wants England switch.