Arsenal have been handed a boost in their transfer approach for Declan Rice as West Ham appear to have found a replacement for their captain. The 24-year-old is expected to leave the Hammers in the coming weeks of the summer transfer window, with just two-years remaining on his contract.
Having earned European glory in the final game of his domestic season, it could be a fitting send off for the midfielder, with chairman David Sullivan admitting that an exit is likely. Plenty of teams have been linked with a switch for the England international, who is expected to fetch over £100million.
football.london understands that a move for Rice is the top priority of Arsenal this summer, though the north London outfit won't be drawn into a bidding war. An initial offer worth a total £80million was submitted and subsequently turned down by West Ham, with expectations surrounding another bid soon.
The Gunners may have to move quick to ensure they have a deal wrapped up soon as Fabrizio Romano reports that rivals Manchester City enquired over a move on Friday. It could leave them vulnerable, with the move far from completed and in their favour at this stage.
They have been given a boost though, with news that could rapidly accelerate an agreement with the Hammers for Rice. That being the report from Romano also stating that West Ham have decided to prepare a first proposal to sign Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha this summer.
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It may not be the easiest of deals with the fellow London club, with a few other options on their list that they could turn to as well. It shows that progress is being made towards facilitating an exit for Rice, something that Arsenal will be hopeful can be completed sooner rather than later.
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