According to reports, Mikel Arteta will «urge» Arsenal to «make an official approach» to West Ham over the signing of Declan Rice once this season is over.
Rice has come under scrutiny this season, but has made his mark in recent weeks by helping West Ham clear of the relegation zone.
The Englishman has been one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders in recent seasons and it’s only a matter of time before he earns a major move elsewhere.
He played for Chelsea as a youngster so they were constantly linked with him. But reports in recent months have indicated that Arsenal are the new favorites to recruit the midfielder.
The gunners he tried to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton and Hove Albion in January but they now appear to be focusing on signing Rice.
The 24-year-old is due to expire in 2024, but West Ham have the option to automatically extend his contract on the same terms until 2025.
The mirror they now report that «Arteta wants to hold talks with Rice as soon as the season ends» and Arsenal are «increasingly confident» of signing the central midfielder. The report adds.
Rice’s contract runs through next summer with an option for another year and he has turned down offers of a new deal.
‘The 24-year-old England international, who has made 41 caps, is keen to stay in London and is interested in joining the Emirates.
Arsenal manager Arteta, who used to play in midfield himself, believes he can help persuade the £100million Rice to join.
«He will be urging Arsenal to make an official approach once the season is over to try and arrange a huge transfer when the window opens in June.»
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Former Gunners star Jack Wilshere thinks Rice would make a «huge signing» for the Premier League giants.
«He’s a midfielder who can do anything,» Wilshere told PA Sport.
“Anyone who supports any club would like Dec to join. Speaking from a selfish point of view, North London, I think he would be very good under Mikel’s watch. Mikel would develop him, take him even further and also be huge for the team.
“I’ve had conversations with Dec and I’ve told him what he’s doing is incredible, he’s the captain of a big club in the Premier League and he’s always learning. Can’t wait to go wherever I go. I hope it’s Arsenal, it would be a huge and perfect signing.»
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