Former England manager Sam Allardyce has tipped Manchester City to beat Arsenal to the signing of Declan Rice this summer, suggesting a swap deal may complete the deal. It comes as both teams have been linked with a move for the West Ham midfielder this window.
football.london understands that Rice is the top priority for the Gunners in the transfer market, but they won't be drawn into a bidding war. The north London side have made an opening offer of £80million, which was split as £70million in guaranteed fees and £10million in add-ons.
That bid was rejected by the Hammers, but Arsenal are expected to increase their offer in the coming days to try and land the England international. That is happening alongside a move for Chelsea star Kai Havertz, who appears to be another of the top targets for Mikel Arteta.
