Chelsea, Arsenal in battle to sign Rice

Several reports have claimed that Declan Rice is a major summer target for Arsenal, who are keen to snatch him under the noses of London rivals Chelsea from West Ham.

According to the Times, the 24-year-old is entering the final 18 months of his existing deal at the London Stadium, but would still cost the Gunners in excess of £80m.

While Daily Telegraph reported that Rice remains committed to helping West Ham avoid relegation this season, they also claim he would cost only around £70m to any willing suitors this summer.

For the Guardian,the England midfielder is Mikel Arteta’s top target and Arsenal are “confident” of beating Chelsea to the signing – which would likely break their transfer record, currently standing at £72m.

For Chelsea, the need for Rice is important in the face of replacing some its ageing players in the middle of the pack.