Arsenal face Declan Rice transfer dilemma with Bayern Munich 'considering huge bid for West Ham captain'

Arsenal face a major dilemma in the race to sign Declan Rice, following reports that Bayern Munich could make a huge bid for the West Ham midfielder.

Rice has been heavily rumoured with a move to Arsenal this summer after tuning down multiple contract extensions at the Hammers.

The 24-year-old expressed his desire to play in the Champions League, and with the Gunners' place in next year's competition confirmed, they have emerged as frontrunners for his signature.

According to The Telegraph, Arsenal are preparing a club-record £92million bid for England international, though West Ham want as much of that fee paid upfront.

However, Bayern Munich have now entered the scene, with manager Thomas Tuchel "convinced he's the perfect defensive midfielder for Bayern", journalist Florian Plettenberg tweeted.

While Bayern could seriously test Arsenal's resolve, with the German giants reportedly willing to meet West Ham's full asking price.

Bayern and Arsenal braced for transfer 'poker'

A fresh report from Sky Sports Germany's Plettenberg states that Rice is now a 'top target' for Bayern.

While it is claimed that the Bundesliga side could pay the England international's full price tag, which is believed to be set at £100 million, according to ESPN.

Plettenberg adds that discussions have taken place between Tuchel and Rice's representatives, but talks are 'not advanced' at this stage.

Rice's personal preference is thought to remain unclear. Although transfer 'poker' between potential suitors has now begun.

The situation presents Mikel Arteta with a significant dilemma, as Bayern's interest means Arsenal could be drawn into a bidding war, potentially stretching out over the entire summer.

It is the polar opposite of what Arteta originally had planned for, with the Spaniard eager to get his summer business done early in the window.

​​“We knew the importance of getting players early in the summer and that is the same we want to do in January," Arteta said (via the Evening Standard)

“This is idealistic. Sometimes it is not realistic. But obviously, if you ask my opinion, as quick as possible we want the players in to get settled.”

Topics: Arsenal, Declan Rice, Bayern Munich, Mikel Arteta, Thomas Tuchel, Premier League, Bundesliga, Football, Transfers, West Ham United

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