Fabrizio Romano: Arsenal prepare opening Declan Rice proposal, West Ham United talks in pipeline
Arsenal are preparing their opening proposal for Declan Rice with the West Ham United captain remaining a top priority, according to The Guardian’s Fabrizio Romano.
It’s understood that no negotiations will take place at present, with the Gunners respecting West Ham’s current situation.
However, Romano has revealed (via Twitter, 19 May) that Arsenal plan to hold talks with the Hammers in June over a move for their talismanic captain.
“Arsenal are preparing an opening proposal for Declan Rice as he remains the priority target for the summer transfer window; they could sign two midfielders depending on outgoings,” he wrote.
“No negotiations now to respect West Ham; talks will take place in June.”
Gathering pace
It’s no surprise to see interest in Rice gather pace. With West Ham’s season now entering its final stages, the board will have to cast an eye ahead to the upcoming transfer window. Arsenal’s interest in the England star hasn’t waned and he will almost certainly depart during the off-season.
The 24-year-old deserves so much praise for how he has handled himself during the latter stages of the 2022/23 season. His performances have gone from strength to strength and there’s no reason why he can’t go on to be successful at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Arsenal would provide Champions League football, but to ensure he reaches his potential, a move to Manchester City would seem like the most sensible decision. Playing under Pep Guardiola could take his game to the next level and would almost guarantee silverware, which is the very least he deserves.
However, before the summer, Rice will be looking to provide one last moment of magic for West Ham in the Conference League final in Prague.