Exclusive: Arsenal warned of ’embarrassing’ Declan Rice repeat with second bid to West Ham imminent
West Ham United remain insistent that Declan Rice will not be allowed to leave this summer unless their price tag is met and with the Gunners’ opening offer derided by the Hammers.
The England midfielder has made clear his desire to leave the London Stadium and play at a higher level. Indeed, Hammers chairman David Sullivan has come clean on the agreement the club has with Rice, with the player turning down a new deal that could have made him £10m better off.
And with the player seemingly set on a move across London to Arsenal, it does seem a question of when not if the move will go through.
However, Arsenal have been stung before when delaying with prospective signings. Indeed, lessons from the failed January pursuit for Mykhaylo Mudryk still ring loud and clear at Emirates.
Nonetheless, Arsenal still hope to seal the Rice signing on their terms. And while their first offer – believed to be for around £90m – was rejected last week, the Gunners are now preparing a new and improved offer.
To that end, the Daily Mail on Monday claims there is a belief at Arsenal that the deal will be done.
And with both Manchester City and Chelsea keeping abreast of the situation, sporting director Edu will have to be wary of not being too casual.
Nonetheless, Arsenal are ready to make a new and improved bid for Rice. And TEAMtalk understands that will be lodged in the coming days.
Declan Rice transfer: West Ham warn Arsenal over second offer
However, the Hammers are under no pressure to sell.
And we understand that they will not be forced into a sale for a penny less than their valuation.
To that end, West Ham are seeking a fee of at least £100m for Rice.
Branding their first offer ’embarrassing’, transfer expert Graeme Bailey provided the latest.
“Rice does look set to move this summer. But after club sources branded Arsenal’s open offer as ‘embarrassing’ it is not a done deal… yet!
“West Ham want to get over £100m. They have stood by this valuation since last year. Given the high level of interest in Rice that situation is not changing.
“And don’t forget that Rice, including option, has two years left on his West Ham contract. The Hammers don’t have to sell. David Sullivan, whilst allowing Rice to leave, won’t allow him to go unless he is 100% happy.”
