Arsenal could be 'blown out of the water' by Man City in battle to sign Declan Rice

Arsenal could be 'blown out of the water' in their attempts to sign Declan Rice this summer, according to a new report.

David Ornstein revealed on Thursday morning that Arsenal have lodged an opening bid to sign the midfielder from West Ham, which various reports cite as £80 million plus £10 million in add-ons.

The Gunners have been tracking Rice for several months, and want the midfielder to be signed before their pre-season training camp gets underway at the beginning of July.

However, West Ham turned down the club's initial bid, meaning they will have to go back and present a strong proposal in order to sign the England international.

After West Ham won the Europa Conference League final, Rice played down talk that he would be leaving the club, instead stating that he was happy at the London Stadium.

Club chairman David Sullivan, however, told talkSPORT that the 24-year-old had almost certainly played his last game for the Hammers.

But Arsenal are not the only team said to be interested in Rice - and they may have to fend off some serious competition.

Arsenal could be 'blown out of the water' in Rice deal

According to The Guardian's Jacob Steinberg, West Ham now anticipate Manchester City to enter the bidding for Rice after turning down Arsenal's initial offer.

This was backed up by Ornstein, who claimed that City are 'exploring' an approach for the midfielder but are yet to launch a formal bid.

The Guardian report adds that although Rice has a preference to remain in London, City's expected interest could 'complicate' matters.

Furthermore, a source predicts that the treble winners would 'blow Arsenal out of the water' with any offer for the Hammers captain.

It had previously been reported by the same outlet that City boss Pep Guardiola had held talks with Rice before the end of the season, but that any proposal was not expected as the club were not looking to replace Rodri. The Spaniard scored the winning goal in the Champions League final next weekend.

A U-turn on their interest could spell bad news for Arsenal - particularly if the Manchester club launches a mega-money bid.

Topics: Arsenal, Declan Rice, Premier League, West Ham United, Manchester City, 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.