Bayern Munich 'hold talks' with Declan Rice's agent as Arsenal face transfer dilemma

Bayern Munich have 'held talks' with Declan Rice's entourage over a potential move to the Bundesliga this summer, according to reports.

Rice is expected to leave West Ham at the end of the season after confirming his desire to play in the Champions League.

Hammers boss David Moyes is thought to be resigned to losing his prized midfielder, and is eager not to let him go for free next summer when the 24-year-old's contract expires.

Arsenal have emerged as favourites to sign the England international, having secured Champions League qualification for the first time since the 2016/17 campaign.

While both Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly sniffing around, with West Ham demanding in excess of £100 million, using Jude Bellingham's price tag as a financial benchmark.

However, European giants Bayern Munich are now said to have entered the race, with Thomas Tuchel allegedly a fan of Rice.

Arsenal face Rice dilemma

According to Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, Tuchel and his backroom staff are 'convinced he's the perfect defensive midfielder for Bayern', confirming talks had been held with the players management.

The Bundesliga side are said to be aware of Arsenal's interest, with Plettenberg calling Rice a 'very difficult transfer target. While a far lower £70m price tag has been touted by the publication.

The midfielder would act as a replacement for the experienced Joshua Kimmich, who has been rumoured with a move to Barcelona this summer, with Arsenal also linked to the 28-year-old.

But Bayern's suspected interest in Rice could present Arteta with a serious dilemma.

Bayern's pursuit of Rice could make the battle to sign the player even harder and potentially see his his price tag rise even further.

While Arsenal could get dragged into bidding war, meaning the transfer saga could be drawn out over the entire summer, forcing Arteta to pour all his focus into the midfielder - ignoring other positions.