Rice: Man City in advanced talks for West Ham captain after Arsenal bids rejected
By Story Agencies, June 23, 2023Manchester City have entered ‘advanced talks’ to sign West Ham’s Declan Rice ahead of long-time suitors Arsenal.
Sky in Italy’s Gianluca Di Marzio is reporting treble-winners City are determined to beat Arsenal to the signing of the 24-year-old Hammers captain, despite only entering the race to sign him at the 11th hour.
On Thursday, it was reported that City will be prepared to pay £75m plus an additional £15m in bonuses payable across two years for Rice.
Life without Gundogan
City are preparing for life without captain Ilkay Gundogan, who is on the verge of joining Barcelona, and want England international Rice despite already agreeing a deal with Chelsea for Mateo Kovacic.
Having beaten Arsenal to last season’s Premier League title, Manchester City are now hoping to pip the Gunners to Rice’s signature. Arsenal are preparing to make a third bid for Rice after seeing two offers rejected.
🏴 @ManCity are in advanced talks with @WestHam to sign Declan #Rice. #MCFC willing to anticipate @Arsenal. @SkySport
— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) June 23, 2023
It is understood positive negotiations are continuing between the London clubs, who are said to be working on both the fee and payment structure of the deal.
Manchester United have an interest in Rice and there have been discussions internally about how possible it would be to sanction a deal.
Due to Financial Fair Play rules, it is unlikely United could spend a huge portion of their budget on one player – especially as they have other areas they want to strengthen.
West Ham have agreed to let Rice go this summer but want a deal worth £120m if they are to sanction their captain’s departure.
City’s interest increases the likelihood of a bidding war between themselves and Arsenal, and the possibility of West Ham’s asking price being matched.