Sources: Man City ready unexpected Declan Rice swoop amid Arsenal latest
Man City are continuing to monitor the situation of West Ham captain Declan Rice despite strong interest from Arsenal, sources have told Football Insider.
The Premier League leaders are laying the groundwork with alternative targets following a big blow in their pursuit of Jude Bellingham, 19, who is reportedly close to joining Real Madrid.
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (9 May) that Arsenal will have to pay a minimum fee of £100million to land Rice this summer.
That is a similar valuation to that of Bellingham – and it is believed that Man City are one of the only sides in Europe capable of committing to that outlay.
Sources with knowledge of the situation have told Football Insider that Pep Guardiola’s side could now formalise their long-term interest in Rice as the summer window approaches.
The England international has played 90 minutes in all but one of West Ham’s league fixtures in the 2022-23 campaign.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (8 May) that the Irons are not interested in taking any player in part exchange for for their in-demand captain.
Rice has spoken publicly on multiple occasions about his ambitions of playing Champions League football and competing for honours at the highest level.
Man City are planning to bolster their midfield ranks in the summer window with captain Ilkay Gundogan closing in on a free transfer move to Barcelona.
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (9 May) that the Citizens have made “huge” cash available for two midfield signings.
Guardiola’s side could complete a famous treble this season as the 2022-23 run-in approaches.
In other news, Man City 28-year-old tells agents to find him a new club.