According to David Ornstein, Manchester City are “expected to make an opening offer” for Arsenal main target, Declan Rice, on Thursday.
In January, Arsenal named Rice as their top target for the upcoming summer transfer window. Meanwhile, the Hammers have rejected two of Arsenal’s proposals for Rice.
Edu, the director of football for the Gunners, has tried to negotiate a £90m agreement, payable over a number of years.
However, the club’s London rivals are not keen on such conditions.
Earlier this month, Athletic journalist Ornstein anticipated that Manchester City will try to sign Rice, and it appears that they will make their move on Thursday.
With Ilkay Gundogan expected to join Barcelona, Ornstein predicts that City will convert their interest into an official bid while Arsenal falters in their chase.
Despite winning the Treble in 2022–2023, Pep Guardiola seems eager to strengthen his midfield, and the Cityzens have also agreed on a price to buy Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea.
🚨 Manchester City expected to submit an offer to West Ham for Declan Rice today. #MCFC have serious interest in recruiting 24yo England midfielder + it is anticipated a formal bid will be lodged soon to rival Arsenal for signing @TheAthleticFC #WHUFC #AFC https://t.co/6ZNtsYPSOh
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 22, 2023
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According to Ornstein, Arsenal ‘believe’ they are ‘getting closer’ to reaching an agreement with West Ham.
The £90m Mikel Arteta’s team are prepared to spend would be a club record fee, beating the £72m they paid for Nicolas Pepe in 2019.
Rice is expected to leave West Ham this summer after helping them win the Europa Conference League.
His contract expires in 2024, though there is the option for another year, giving West Ham a lot more control in negotiations.
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