Sky Sports reporter claims Arsenal are plotting another stunning transfer even if the club signs Caicedo

Arsenal plan to make a move for West Ham captain Declan Rice this summer even if they are able to sign Brighton's Moises Caicedo in January, according to a report.

The Gunners are top of the Premier League, five points clear of Manchester City, with a game in hand over the reigning champions.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his midfield in the push for the Premier League title, having already signed Leandro Trossard and Jakub Kiwior this month.

It was reported on Friday morning that the Gunners had a £60million bid for Caicedo rejected by Brighton, with the Seagulls keen for him to stay at the Amex until the end of the season.

Arsenal maintain interest in Rice

Despite their pursuit of Ecuador international Caicedo, Arsenal are said to maintain their interest in Declan Rice.

Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth tweeted: "Told Arsenal remain interested in Declan Rice for the summer - regardless of the outcome of their pursuit of Moises Caicedo."

Rice has been linked with a move to north London, with Arteta reportedly making him his number one summer target.

According to The Guardian, the Spaniard has already "drawn up plans for where the West Ham captain would fit into his team", and Rice is convinced that his coaching would make him a better midfielder.

It is claimed that West Ham are seeking £100million for Rice, a similar price to what Brighton are said to want for Caicedo.

But with Rice's contract set to expire in less than 18 months time, West Ham could be forced to settle for a lower fee.

Arsenal face competition for Rice

Chelsea also have a long-standing interest in the player, with Rice having played in their academy before moving to the Hammers.

Meanwhile, Liverpool and Real Madrid are also said to be in the race, according to other sources.

One remarkable report from Spain claimed that Los Blancos were interested in the England international.

Spanish publication Nacional, as reported by Football365, reported that Real Madrid had Rice 'on their agenda' and have been 'following the West Ham United captain for a long time'.

But it is claimed that Rice has told Real Madrid there is 'no chance that he will end up joining' and that he has already 'given his word' to Arsenal.

Topics: Declan Rice, Arsenal, West Ham United, Brighton And Hove Albion, Mikel Arteta, David Moyes, Premier League, Football, Transfers

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno