Arsenal and Manchester City's intense battle for Declan Rice looks set to significantly develop in the coming days. On Monday evening, West Ham received Man City's opening proposal to sign Rice worth £80million up front and £10million available in add-ons, however the Premier League champions were handed the same outcome that Arsenal received with the Hammers rejecting the bid.
At a quick glance, the offer from Etihad Stadium doesn't appear that different to Arsenal's recently rebuffed package deal, but football.london understands that the Citizens' offered more upfront compared to the north Londoners whilst also paying in fewer instalments and providing what the Hammers feel would be more more achievable add-ons. Nonetheless, it was still turned down, likely because both interested parties are yet to reach the £100million mark.
Emirates Stadium remains the 24-year-old's preference and football.london understands that the Gunners will beat Man City to Rice if they either table an offer that exceeds his triple-figure asking price or one which guarantees a significant fee to be paid upfront.
