With just 12 months left on his contract, West Ham captain Declan Rice is targeted by several of the English Premier League clubs for future cooperation.
The two main clubs in this race are Arsenal and Chelsea, followed by Manchester City and Manchester United. Arsenal wanted to sign Rice back in January, however, West Ham insisted that the captain was not for sale and the time was not suitable for him to leave the club. Considering the growing interest, the Hammers will maximize the cost of the 24-year-old midfielder, per their own eagerness to keep the players part of the squad.
Yet, Arsenal’s firmly established place on top of the Premier League has made Arteta more confident that Rice will consider joining them. The English player has a strong desire to compete for trophies in the Champions League, which will be one factor in helping Arsenal land him.
As for Chelsea, the player’s return to his boyhood club has always been considered an asset to the squad. The Blues, however, are unlikely to attract Rice due to their lasting misfortune. Additionally, the uncertainty over Mason Mount’s future at the club could also discourage Rice, as the two have a very close relationship.
Source - Evening Standard