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Arsenal given big Declan Rice boost as resigned West Ham stance emerges
Arsenal are hoping to sign West Ham and England midfielder Declan Rice this summer.
West Ham are resigned to losing their influential captain Declan Rice this summer, according to reports. Arsenal are the favourites to land the England star in what would likely be a club-record deal.
Rice's current contract at West Ham expires in the summer of 2024 and he has rejected all offers of renewal so far. The Hammers do have the option to extend it by a further 12 months to 2025.
However, it is looking increasingly likely that the 24-year-old will be on his way sooner rather than later. Rice is desperate to play in the Champions League, a competition West Ham are unlikely to be featuring in anytime soon.
Arsenal's interest in Rice emerged at the turn of the year. And they have now been given a big boost in their chances of landing him.
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The Mail says West Ham know they have to sell Rice at the end of the season. The price must be right, however, and the east Londoners will demand around £100million.
West Ham will use the one-year option they have in Rice's contract to help their negotiations. Arsenal's most-expensive signing of all time is Nicolas Pepe at £72m so Rice is likely to smash that record quite considerably.
Arsenal have moved ahead of their rivals in the race for the midfielder. Chelsea have long been linked with a move for Rice after releasing him from their academy at the age of 14.
Manchester United and Manchester City are also long-term admirers. But it is increasingly likely that Arsenal will get a deal done if they cough up what West Ham are demanding.
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Rice starred in his side's 1-0 win over Manchester United at the London Stadium on Sunday. And Hammers boss David Moyes warned potential suitors that his skipper won't come cheap.
Moyes said: "Again, he was outstanding tonight but I thought we had some really big performers. No surprising me, he has got a great talent of regaining the ball.
"You’ve seen him play for England, you’ve seen the abilities he uses in recovering the ball and getting around people. He’s great across the ground, very quick. I’m pleased, but not surprised.
"That’s why he is probably the best English midfield player around and that is why he is going to be extremely expensive if anybody comes calling."
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