According to The Telegraph, West Ham United has reportedly rejected a £90 million bid from Manchester City for their highly sought-after midfielder, Declan Rice. The 24-year-old England international has been attracting interest from several top clubs, including Arsenal, who have already had two bids turned down by West Ham. Despite City's offer surpassing Arsenal's previous bid of £75 million plus £15 million in bonuses, the Hammers are said to be holding out for at least £100 million for their star player.
It is believed that Arsenal is preparing an improved third offer for Rice within the next 48 hours, independent of Manchester City's bid. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, considers Rice his primary target for the summer transfer window. The forthcoming proposal from Arsenal is expected to be closer to West Ham's valuation, as they seek to secure the services of the talented midfielder.
Meanwhile, Manchester United is also reportedly interested in Rice, but they are considered outsiders in the race. The Red Devils have contemplated a player-plus-cash deal and are willing to sell up to 13 players to generate funds for reinforcements. West Ham has shown interest in Manchester United's Scott McTominay, although their pursuit of Harry Maguire may be hindered by the defender's high wage demands.
The timing of Manchester City's bid coincides with the departure of their captain, Ilkay Gundogan, to Barcelona. City has also been linked with a move for Chelsea's Mateo Kovacic, but they are determined to strengthen their squad further after securing a historic treble. Rice is regarded as a "strong option" by Pep Guardiola, and the club has genuine interest in acquiring his services.
Declan Rice has been an integral part of West Ham since his debut in 2017, making 245 appearances and scoring 15 goals. His performances have earned him a place in the England national team, where he has won 43 caps under manager Gareth Southgate. Rice's potential departure from West Ham would come after a successful season that saw the club clinch the Europa Conference League title, providing Rice with the opportunity to lift a European trophy as captain, a feat not accomplished by a West Ham player since the legendary Bobby Moore.