Arsenal make opening offer for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice

Arsenal have made an opening offer for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice, reports The Athletic’s David Ornstein.

However, the north London club face stiff competition from Manchester City, who are also actively exploring an approach for the England international.

The 24-year-old is Arsenal’s top transfer target for this summer, and their executive Tim Lewis and his West Ham counterpart Karren Brady held talks at the Premier League Annual General Meeting on Wednesday.

Arsenal sporting director Edu and director of football operations Richard Garlick are leading the process.

It remains to be seen whether the Hammers will accept the opening bid the Gunners have tabled.

Rice is expected to cost more than £100 million, and West Ham will be keen to play hardball to get top dollar for their man.

Arsenal and Man City are not the only clubs keen on the Hammers captain, with Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Manchester United also linked.

While Mikel Arteta’s side appeared to have emerged as favourites in the race for Rice, the emergence of Man City could pose a problem.

The Premier League champions could be more appealing and offer Rice and his club better financial packages.

Arsenal will fancy their chances of pipping Pep Guardiola’s side to his services, but they will need to move quickly.

They are ready to sell Granit Xhaka, while doubts have emerged over the futures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey.

Rice will improve the Gunners midfield, and the club must ensure Man City do not hijack the deal.