West Ham United transfer news: Arsenal set to table third bid for Declan Rice this week – Fabrizio Romano
Arsenal are set to lodge a third bid for West Ham United captain Declan Rice this week, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The race to sign the England international has intensified after the Gunners had two offers rejected by the Hammers, with Manchester City now entering the fray with confidence of reaching a final agreement. [Gianluca Di Marzio, 22 June]
Speaking to CaughtOffside, transfer insider Romano shared that the coming days could be crucial in the race for the 24-year-old, with both Arsenal and Manchester City expected to make offers.
He said: “We heard a lot about an official Manchester City bid for Declan Rice, and it could still happen, but also Arsenal plan to submit a third proposal for the West Ham United captain this week.
“The race remains open between Man City and Arsenal, waiting for the bids and also for West Ham position. Payment terms will also be important, West Ham want big money paid now and not in four or five instalments.
“As I revealed a couple of days ago, contacts have taken place between City and Rice on the player side. Mikel Arteta has been trying his best to sign Rice for Arsenal, but City are still there as well. Nothing is decided yet, but we could have a crucial few days ahead.”
Swift conclusion needed
Although West Ham will want to drive Rice’s price as high as possible and try to spark a bidding war between the two Premier League clubs, it could come as a detriment to their long-term plans.
After a pretty underwhelming Premier League campaign last year, the need for fresh faces through the doors at the London Stadium is evident. Unfortunately, the likes of Gianluca Scamacca, Thilo Kehrer and Lucas Paqueta didn’t have the overall impact which was expected with their big-money arrivals.
However, until the money is received for Rice, Moyes won’t know what he is playing with and won’t be able to finalise any exact transfer plans for this summer.
At least one midfielder is needed to replace the exit-bound England international, while additions on the wing, at right-back and at centre-half, could be required.
While the race for Rice continues to wade on, the Hammers find themselves in transfer limbo.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have made an approach to sign one 16-goal striker this summer as they look to bolster their attack.