Mikel Arteta is using a transfer strategy used by Sir Alex Ferguson in Arsenal's pursuit to sign West Ham captain Declan Rice this summer.
Manchester United have been long-term admirers of Rice while Chelsea, where the player spent seven years as an academy prospect, were credited with interest before Christmas. In January, the Gunners made it a three-way race for the signature of the 24-year-old.
The all-action central midfielder is out of contract at the Hammers in 2024 and the indications are that he has no intention of renewing at the East London club. That is likely to lead to a negotiation process this summer whereby West Ham, who are publicly denying the possibility of a sale, consider cashing in on their star.
