Manchester City and Arsenal are both interested in signing West Ham captain Declan Rice, with Manchester City reportedly preparing a £75m + £15m bonus offer. Talks between the clubs have progressed, and there is confidence that a deal can be reached. Manchester City is looking to secure Rice’s signature as they prepare for the departure of captain Ilkay Gundogan, who is on the verge of joining Barcelona. Despite already agreeing to a deal with Chelsea for Mateo Kovacic, Manchester City is keen on signing Rice. Arsenal, on the other hand, is preparing a third bid for Rice after seeing their previous two offers rejected. Positive negotiations continue between the London clubs, who are working on the fee and payment structure of the deal. Manchester United also has an interest in Rice, but it is unlikely they can afford to spend a significant portion of their budget on one player due to Financial Fair Play rules. West Ham is willing to let Rice go this summer but would demand a deal worth £120m. The interest from Manchester City increases the likelihood of a bidding war between the two clubs. Rice is seen as an ideal partner for Manchester City’s Rodri in midfield, offering defensive capabilities and the ability to contribute in possession. He could also potentially provide flexibility as a center-back. Overall, the potential signing of Rice by Manchester City would bolster their midfield and pose a threat to their rivals.
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