Arsenal risk the possibility of losing out on Declan Rice this summer if they pursue a move for Ilkay Gundogan first in the transfer window. It comes as the Gunners look to revamp their midfield ranks in the coming months, with a whole host of players linked with a switch.
Amongst the most prominent names is Rice, who football.london understands is a top priority for the summer transfer window. A move for the 24-year-old has ramped up in recent days as football.london also understands that an opening bid worth a total of £80million was tabled.
West Ham rejected the bid, which was structured as £70million with £10million in add-ons, holding out for a higher fee for their captain. Reports elsewhere have also claimed that the Gunners are making progress in agreeing personal terms with Rice, moving the deal even closer.
All things appear to point towards a switch to the Emirates Stadium for the England international, but there could yet be another twist in the tale. That's because Manchester City are believed to be showing interest in competing with Arsenal for Rice's signature this summer.
The current Premier League champions have some catching up to do if they are to become serious contenders for the midfielder, but they could ramp up interest if they lose Ilkay Gundogan. The Germany international is nearing the final few weeks of his contract at the club and is yet to make a decision on his future.
Arsenal have been linked as one of the teams monitoring a move for the midfield star, who has been a key part of City's recent success. If the Gunners were to make their move, it could only speed up his departing club making a move for Rice and risking the possibility of missing out on him.
READ MORE: Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Caicedo twist, Declan Rice agreement 'close', Kai Havertz offer
Equally, if they don't move for Gundogan as soon as possible, Arsenal could miss out on him to a renewal at the Etihad Stadium or to Barcelona after recent links. It remains to be seen how the midfield shuffle in the market will progress, but the north London outfit will have to tread carefully with their strategy to land their top targets.
READ NEXT:
Arsenal nearing Declan Rice agreement after first bid as Pep Guardiola eyes transfer hijack
'Winning the league' - Arsenal fans make Man Utd and Tottenham prediction after fixture reveal
