Arsenal have been handed a free run at signingWest Ham UnitedmidfielderDeclan RiceafterBayern Munichpulled out of the race, according toBild.
The Bundesliga champions were the second part of a two-horse race for Rice’s signature, acting at the behest of manager Thomas Tuchel who was keen to work with the England international.
The German wants to bring in a new defensive midfielder, and Rice checks all his boxes, having been previously interested in the 24-year-old during his time as Chelsea boss.
However, he has been informed that they will not be moving further with their ρłɑɴs to lure the Englishman to the Allianz Arena after withdrawing their interest.
Bayern’s decision comes as a boost toArsenal, who are now home-free in the race to sign Rice, with the North Londoners set tobreak their transfer recordfor the former Chelsea academy player.
West Ham chairman David Sullivan has confirmed that Rice has played his last game for the club, having led the Hammers to Europa Conference League glory in Prague.
Rice has one year left on his current Ԁєɑł, so West Ham are obliged to cash in this summer or risk losing a player of his calibre leaving on a free transfer at the єɴԀ of next season.
Rice is famous for his passing and ball interception skills and is also adept at breaking up opposition play with relative ease.He has been a consistent performer for West Ham after graduating thɾօυɢҺ the youth ranks.
Since joining the first team set-up in the summer of 2017, he has racked up 245 appearances, bagging 15 goals and 13 assists.
West Ham will let him leave but not without recouping over £100 million in transfer fees from his departure. However,Arsenalare hoping an agreement can be reached foraround £90m.
Meanwhile,Bayernwill have to consider their option, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Joshua Kimmich’s future, withSpanish giants Barcelona keen.
