Topics: West Ham United, Declan Rice, Arsenal, Europa Conference League, Mikel Arteta, Premier League, Transfers
Arsenal have 'agreed personal terms' with West Ham captain Declan Rice ahead of the Europa Conference League final, according to a new report.
The 24-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from the Hammers this summer, with the Daily Mail claiming that the Gunners would launch an official bid for Rice after the Europa Conference League final.
That fixture occurs on Wednesday evening, with West Ham taking on Fiorentina in Prague as they search for their first European trophy since lifting the Intertoto Cup in 1999.
Rice will lead his side in their attempts to win the trophy - and it could prove to be his final competitive game in a Hammers shirt.
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The Guardian report that Arsenal remain in the lead of the race to sign the England international, with moves to Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Newcastle all considered more unlikely.
Now, a key update on Rice's future has been reported just hours ahead of the biggest match of his club career.
According to Football Insider's Fraser Fletcher, as per sources, Rice has 'verbally agreed' personal terms with Arsenal ahead of a potential summer move.
The report adds that, although the situation is 'interchangeable', a 'well-placed source' cites that Rice has said 'yes' to the Arsenal project, in a major initial boost for manager Mikel Arteta.
The Spaniard is looking to add quality to his midfield this summer - and the England international would certainly help him to achieve that aim.
However, West Ham and Arsenal are yet to agree a fee for Rice. According to the Mail, Arsenal are prepared to submit an offer of £90 million for the 24-year-old - although the Hammers reportedly want £120 million from any Champions League club to sell their star asset.
Sky Sports claimed in May that the club would also accept £100 million plus a player for Rice, which could tempt Arsenal to take that option rather than paying the full asking price for a player that would transform their midfield.
