Declan Rice would still prefer an Arsenal move despite the Gunners' early setback in their pursuit of the West Ham captain.
An initial bid from Mikel Arteta's side has been knocked back by the Hammers, who are understood to be holding out for more than £100m. England midfielder Rice has played more than 200 Premier League games for his current club, and took over as official captain following Mark Noble's retirement in 2022.
While Bayern Munich appear to have dropped out of the race for the 24-year-old, Arsenal won't have a free run at their target. Manchester City are also said to be exploring a move, though the player's preference appears to be clear.
