Arsenal have finalized a £105 million agreement to acquire West Ham captain Declan Rice, leaving Manchester City behind in the race.
The Gunners, after submitting their third bid on Tuesday night, are now in discussions with West Ham to finalize the remaining details and complete their first signing of the summer.
Arsenal’s bid for Declan Rice was accepted after facing two rejections from David Moyes’ side. Even reigning champions Manchester City had their approach turned down as West Ham held firm on their £100 million valuation.
Initially, Mikel Arteta’s first two bids fell short of the substantial amount required, but they eventually reached an agreement at a club-record sum of £105 million, including £5 million in add-ons.
On Wednesday morning, Arsenal found themselves in the leading position for Declan Rice’s signature as Manchester City officially withdrew from the bidding process.
Havertz is a Gunner
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s involvement in securing Kai Havertz’s move from Chelsea was completed smoothly. Club manager, Mikel Arteta played a crucial role in facilitating the transfer through his communication with the German international.
Additionally, Southampton’s Romeo Lavia has caught Arsenal’s attention. However, Liverpool has made a significant move and may soon overtake Arsenal as the frontrunners in the race for Lavia’s signature.
