Arsenal's approach for Declan Rice has taken some steps forward in recent days as talks ramp up over a potential move from West Ham this summer transfer window. The 24-year-old has been heavily linked with an exit from the Hammers, with just two-years remaining on his contract.
football.london understands that a move for Rice is a top priority for the Gunners this summer, though they will not be drawn into a bidding war. An initial offer was made by the north London outfit that football.london understands was worth £80million with £10million in add-ons.
That move was rejected, with the Irons looking to receive more for their captain, and interest coming from elsewhere too. Manchester United and Bayern Munich have been heavily linked, while title rivals Manchester City are the latest team to be monitoring a potential move.
Overall, it means there's still some work for the Arsenal hierarchy to do in order to have Rice lining up in the red of the Gunners going into next season. However, with that next campaign inching ever closer, there's a clearer idea of how it may pan out in the coming months.
Thursday marked the release of the Premier League fixtures for 2023/24, with each team learning who they will play and when. For Rice, if he were to make the switch to the Emirates Stadium in the next few weeks, there has been a dream scenario arise in the calendar.
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That being the fact that the Gunners don't play West Ham until Boxing Day (December 26), meaning the midfielder won't have to fret about the reception he may receive so soon after a move away. At that point, there would be half-a-season's worth of experience at the club added, meaning a more seamless transition than facing his old club.
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