Declan Rice looks set for a move away from West Ham United in the summer with several Premier League clubs hoping to sign him in the summer. Chelsea had been outlined as favourites for a number of seasons, but now Arsenal have joined the race with Manchester United also keeping tabs on his situation.
Todd Boehly and Co. had looked to have a free run at Rice in the summer with a midfield rebuild desperately needed at Stamford Bridge. One part of that looks to have already been completed though with Enzo Fernandez joining the club on deadline day for a British record transfer fee from Benfica.
Midfield recruitment was also being eyed for the end of the season by Arsenal with Youri Tielemans as their top target until that stance changed after the Gunners' flying start of the season. Interest from north London in Tielemans has now cooled, football.london understands.
READ MORE: What Christian Pulisic has said about Chelsea transfer as Arsenal 'aware' of situation
Hammers captain Rice is now Mikel Arteta's top target with the club still willing to sign him despite acquiring Jorginho from Chelsea last month, football.london understands.
Rice's team were one of many sides at the centre of VAR controversy over the weekend with a clear hand ball by Tomas Soucek not given as a penalty for Chelsea. Later in the day, Rice attended the BRIT awards to present the Best Hip Hop, Grime and Rap Act award.
Prior to the ceremony beginning, the 24-year-old was stopped by presenter Amelia Dimoldenberg for an interview with one of his answers setting the transfer rumour mill in motion.
During the chat, a packet of Monster Munch and a chicken nugget was offered to the midfielder by Dimoldenberg before she appeared to weigh in on Rice’s future on the pitch by saying: "I do have a Manchester United mug…"
The England international quickly responded to that offer by shaking his head before he replied: "Not for me, that." The duo then displayed their affection for Rice’s current employers with a rendition of 'Up the Hammers' each.
Where Rice will end up for the 2023/24 season is currently unclear, but given their lack of options in the position along with Rice's desire to stay in London, Arsenal appear favourites to land his signature. The former Chelsea youth star is also said to have put out feelers to current Arsenal stars about what life is like playing football in north London.
READ NEXT:
Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Chelsea teammates left 'shocked' after what happened vs West Ham United
Liverpool already know Mason Mount price tag as Chelsea bosses 'resigned' to contract decision
Joao Felix lifts lid on 'easy' Chelsea start after scoring first goal vs West Ham United
Every word Graham Potter said on VAR, Tomas Soucek, Chelsea adjustments, Reece James, Joao Felix
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
