Arsenal have reportedly shortlisted three midfielders as potential partners for Declan Rice next season.
The 25-year-old joined the Gunners in a deal worth £105m back in the summer of 2023, leaving West Ham United following their Europa Conference League triumph.
Rice enjoyed a productive first season at the Emirates, fitting into the midfield well alongside the likes of Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard.
Despite his efforts, the former Hammers captain was unable to help Mikel Arteta's side to Premier League glory, with Arsenal finishing second behind Manchester City for a consecutive year.
Rice has spent the summer away on international duty with Gareth Southgate's England in Germany, where the Three Lions eventually lost out at the final stage to Spain.
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Arsenal 'identify' three player as possible Rice partners
According to The Athletic, Arsenal are in the hunt for a long-term partner for midfield enforcer Rice in the engine room during this summer's transfer window.
The report claims that the Gunners have highlighted Benfica's Joao Neves as a possible incoming at the Emirates ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.
That being said, Arteta's troops face an uphill battle in securing the services of the youngster, with the Portugal international having a £100m release clause in his contract.
A cheaper alternative for the Gunners is said to be Mikel Merino, who was a hero for Luis de la Fuente's Spain on the way to their fourth European crown.
It is understood that the Real Sociedad midfielder would be available for his release clause of £55m, with Arsenal prepared to offer him a 'contract of a lifetime' to leave La Liga.
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Arsenal's Arteta using Spanish links?
On top of Neves and Merino, it is believed that Arsenal are interested in the capture of Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi, who was also part of La Roja's Euro 2024-winning squad.
With a release clause of £51m, the 25-year-old would be the budget option of the trio, although only marginally cheaper than teammate Merino.
The key to the Gunners' ability to sign a new partner for Rice this summer could be the future of former Atletico Madrid man Thomas Partey.
He has one year left on his contract, and it is said that Arsenal would be willing to sell him for £30m in order to fund arrivals.
