David James brutally tells Declan Rice to snub Arsenal and join Man City instead

Former England goalkeeper David James reckons Declan Rice should join Manchester City over Arsenal this summer.

Rice is at the centre of a three-way bidding war between Arsenal, Manchester United and Premier League champions Manchester City after West Ham granted him permission to leave the club if their £100 million valuation is met.

The Gunners have been long-standing favourites to land the 24-year-old's signature, having already seen two bids worth up to £90 million rejected by the Hammers.

However, news of Pep Guardiola's interest as cast major doubt over Mikel Arteta's plans, with Sky Sports reporter

Gianluca Di Marzio claiming that Rice was "closer" to a move to the Etihad on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag is allegedly set to launch a £40 million bid for Rice which would include Harry Maguire and Anthony Elanga heading to the London Stadium.

But ex Portsmouth and Liverpool goalkeeper James believes it should be an easy choice for the midfielder, advising him to reject Arsenal in favour of a move to the reigning champions.

"Why would he want to play for Arsenal? One team are the European, FA Cup and Premier League champions - the other is neither, or none," he told Sky Sports.

"I'd rather he went abroad. Because then he won't be in a team that might want to beat West Ham and that would be something I think a lot of West Ham fans wouldn't like.

"Declan is top-drawer and Man City are the best team in Europe - and are probably going to be the best team in the world in few months if they win the Club World Cup.

"If Declan Rice is part of that it's because he deserves to be, so all the best to him if it happens," the 52-year-old added.

James' comments may come as no surprise bearing in mind his allegiance to Guardiola's side, having made over 100 appearances for the north west side. While he also registered 104 appearances for West Ham.

Ultimately, the decision may rest with Rice if both Arsenal and City meet the Hammers' strict £100 million asking price.

The England international is said to want assurances over his long-term future at the Etihad, while he is reportedly seen as a future captain by Arteta.