Arsenal are on the brink of making history by securing a record breaking £100 million deal for West Ham United captain Declan Rice. As reports emerge that the Gunners have made an improved offer to the London club, with add-ons that could take the final price to as much as £105 million, speculation is rife that a move could soon be completed.
The news comes hot on the heels of Manchester City’s failed attempt to land the midfielder, in which they offered £90 million and had their bid rejected by West Ham earlier this week. Arsenal have now made their move and look set to make him their highest ever paid player in British football, surpassing Harry Maguire’s £80 million transfer from Leicester City in 2019.
If complete, this further investment into Mikel Arteta’s squad will bolster Arsenal’s midfield options ahead of what promises to be an exciting season for both club and fans alike. The North Londoners were among the Premier League sides who enjoyed a successful return after lockdown last season and with further reinforcements could challenge for top four next time around.
Rice has been a key figure at West Ham since his promotion to first team duty back in 2017 and has become one of England’s most sought-after young talents over recent years. This deal will come as a huge financial boost for the Hammers, who are still paying off debts from their move to London Stadium in 2016, but at 24 years old Rice’s potential has only just begun to be realised.
Arsenal will no doubt be hoping that Rice can replicate his form at West Ham and bring more dynamism to their midfield options next season. Furthermore, Rice’s arrival would also serve as a statement of intent from the North London club as they get ready to don their new modernised kit for 2023/24; If you are interested in Arsenal 23/24 kit and other peripherals, you can find out more by clicking here.
