Mikel Arteta is planning to hold talks with West Ham captain Declan Rice at the end of the season as Arsenal step up their interest in signing the 24-year-old midfielder. football.london reported in January that the Gunners are prioritising a move for Rice this summer as Arteta looks to bolster his midfield.
Rice’s contract runs until next summer with the option of another a year and he has already rejected fresh offers regarding a new deal. at the London Stadium. The England international is said to be keen on staying in London and is interested in a switch to the Emirates Stadium ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.
Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United have all been linked with moves for the Hammers' star but it looks as though the Gunners are leading to race to land his signature. Midfield is an area that needs strengthening for Arsenal, with Thomas Partey's form dropping off towards the end of the current season as the north London outfit have stumbled in their Premier League title fight with Manchester City.
