June 23rd 2023.
Manchester City are ready to challenge Arsenal in the race to sign Declan Rice from West Ham, but the Premier League champions face an uphill battle to convince the English midfielder to join them.
It is understood that Rice would prefer to join Mikel Arteta's young team at Arsenal, where he would play a crucial role and be part of the club's leadership group. The Gunners had already laid the groundwork for Rice's move back in January, but have been unable to agree a fee with West Ham.
Now, City are ready to enter the bidding war, with reports claiming that the club are close to signing Rice, who would be a great replacement for Ilkay Gundogan. However, the possibility of working with Pep Guardiola is not enough to convince Rice, as the Spaniard is widely expected to leave City in 2025.
Rice also has reservations about his role at City, as he has similar skills to Rodri, who is currently first choice for Guardiola. He is mindful of the problems that Kalvin Phillips has encountered at City since his move from Leeds United and the lack of game time he was afforded last season.
Although Manchester United are reportedly interested in Rice, they are considered to be outsiders, as they have proposed a player plus cash deal which would involve Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay.
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