Arsenal have reportedly received a clear message from West Ham over their transfer pursuit of Declan Rice.
The 24-year-old was identified as a top target for Mikel Arteta’s side earlier this year but the Gunners have so far seen two bids rejected this summer. West Ham are willing to sell their skipper after he led the club to a European trophy last season but are holding out for a high-profile fee, despite Rice being set to enter the final year of his contract, albeit with an option for an extra 12 months.
Arsenal recently saw a second bid for Rice rejected and have been joined by title rivals Manchester City in the battle for his signature. The treble-winning side are yet to submit an offer but have held discussions with West Ham, amid Ilkay Gundogan’s imminent move to Barcelona.
