Man City looking to hijack Arsenal's attempt to sign Declan Rice as West Ham 'reject opening bid'

Arsenal have made an opening offer to sign West Ham star Declan Rice, according to reports - although Manchester City are now considering their own approach.

The Gunners have been linked with a move for the midfielder since January, with the Hammers captain one of manager Mikel Arteta's key targets.

It was reported that an offer would be launched after last week's Europa Conference League final, with Arsenal looking to get their business done before their pre-season training camp in the first week of July.

According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, Arsenal have now sent an offer to West Ham.

However, another report adds that they have received a rapid response.

Arsenal receive Rice response

Ornstein reports that the Gunners launched an offer for Rice following talks between club executive Tim Lewis and his West Ham counterpart, Karren Brady, at a Premier League AGM. However, he confirms that sporting director Edu is leading the Rice project.

The report adds that Manchester City are also considering an approach for the 24-year-old, although no formal offer has been made.

But Arsenal, it appears, will need to submit a higher bid if they are to lure Rice away from the London Stadium. Jacob Steinberg has revealed that the Hammers have already rejected the Gunners' opening offer, which is believed to be worth £80 million plus a further £10 million in add-ons.

When asked on talkSPORT last week about whether the Europa Conference League final could be Rice's last game for the club, West Ham chairman David Sullivan replied: "I think it has to be. We promised him he could go. He set his heart on going.

"You can't ask for a man who has committed more to us this season. In due course, he has to get on and we have to get a replacement - or several replacements.

"It's not something we want to happen. We offered him £200,000-a-week 18 months ago. He turned it down."

Topics: Arsenal, Declan Rice, West Ham United, Manchester City, Mikel Arteta, Premier League, Transfers

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.