Former West Ham goalkeeper David James believes Arsenal transfer target Declan Rice should stay with the Hammers if they win the Europa Conference League, or alternatively move abroad. The England international is hoping to write his name into West Ham history by lifting the club's first European trophy in 33 years with a win against Fiorentina tonight.
Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his squad, particularly in midfield, with Rice being the priority target. football.london understands that the Gunners are confident they have a strong offer for Rice but feel that it will ultimately come down to the player to decide amid interest from a host of other elite European sides, including Bayern Munich and Manchester United.
The 24-year-old midfielder has expressed a desire to play for a team competing in the Champions League - something the Gunners can offer Rice next season after finishing second in the Premier League. The Hammers' captain is said to be settled in London which may hand Arsenal a huge advantage over their rivals when it comes to striking a deal for the England international.
