Arsenal have reportedly emerged as heavy favourites to sign Declan Rice from West Ham United this summer, with both clubs set to agree on a transfer fee for the player.
The 24-year-old may have played his final game for the Hammers last week as he helped his side to a historic Europa Conference League success over Fiorentina - the English club's first major trophy since 1980.
Having been the centre of significant transfer speculation over the past few months, it is understood that the midfielder is drawing closer to making a move across London.
According to The Guardian, the Gunners are edging towards the capture of Rice, with Mikel Arteta's men close to agreeing a fee with West Ham which would make the midfielder the club's most expensive signing.
The North London outfit are understood to be willing to pay an initial £90m for the England international, and the total financial package received by David Moyes's side would increase to over £100m if certain add-ons were achieved.
It is believed that discussions over personal terms between Rice and Arsenal have progressed smoothly, with manager Arteta viewing the Hammers captain as a player who will allow the Gunners to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title again next term.
Carter White
